Californian Firecracker Plant (Dichelostemma ida-maia)

Californian Firecracker Plant: A Hummingbird Magnet

The Californian Firecracker Plant (Dichelostemma ida-maia, syn. Brodiaea coccinea, Brodiaea ida-maia, Brevoortia ida-maia) is a spectacular native bulbous perennial from northern California and southern Oregon. In late spring to early summer, it sends up tall, wiry stems bearing dangling, tubular flowers of vivid crimson with green tips, resembling tiny firecrackers. These nectar-rich blooms are irresistible to hummingbirds.

Natural Habitat and Garden Use

Found in open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows, it thrives in well-drained soil with winter/spring moisture and dry summers. Plant corms in autumn in full sun to light shade. It naturalizes well in meadow gardens, rockeries, or under oaks. The grass-like foliage appears in winter and dies back by flowering time.

Taxonomy

• Family: Alliaceae
• Genus: Dichelostemma
• Species: ida-maia
• Synonyms: Brodiaea coccinea, Brodiaea ida-maia, Brevoortia ida-maia