Native Habitat:
Open woods, rocky slopes, and grasslands in western North America, including the Willamette Valley foothills.
 
Bloom Time:
May – July
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial bulb, 6–18 inches tall, with tight umbels of pink to purple flowers.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun; well-drained soils, tolerates rocky and nutrient-poor conditions.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Camassia quamash, Eriophyllum lanatum, Sidalcea campestris, Festuca roemeri.
 
Urban Garden Function:
A resilient and early-blooming bulb ideal for urban meadows, dry borders, and rock gardens. Its rosy umbels provide early summer color and structure, bridging the floral gap between spring bulbs and later perennials. Works beautifully when planted en masse or interspersed with native grasses and wildflowers, adding rhythm, texture, and seasonal interest to small urban gardens or habitat restoration sites.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Attracts native bees, sweat bees (Halictidae), syrphid flies, and small butterflies, providing early-season nectar for emerging pollinators.
 
Historical Use:
Bulbs roasted or used as a seasoning by Indigenous peoples; valued for its edible and medicinal properties.