Native Habitat:
Typically found in prairies, open woodlands, rocky slopes, and well-drained meadows.
Prefers areas with good air circulation and moderate disturbance; often grows in partial shade to full sun.
 
Bloom Time:
Flowers from mid to late summer, usually July through August.
Blooms are nodding clusters (umbels) of star-shaped, pink to rose-colored flowers.
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial bulbous plant.
Grows in clumps or small colonies.
Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) tall.
Spread: 6–12 inches (15–30 cm).
 
Light, Soil, & Water Requirements:
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates sandy or rocky soils; avoids heavy clay.
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established.
Prefers soils with average fertility; avoid overwatering or poorly drained sites.
 
Ecological Role:
Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Bulbs can be a food source for small wildlife.
Contributes to native plant community biodiversity.
 
Willamette Valley Companion Plants:
Erythronium oregonum (Oregon Fawn Lily)
Lomatium spp. (Biscuitroots / Desert Parsley)
Camassia quamash (Common Camas)
Dicentra formosa (Pacific Bleeding Heart)
Heuchera micrantha (Crevice Alumroot)
Sisyrinchium bellum (Blue-eyed Grass)
Eriophyllum lanatum (Oregon sunshine)
Lupinus spp. (lupines)
Achillea millefolium (yarrow)
 
Historical Use:
Bulbs and leaves were traditionally eaten by Indigenous tribes, often raw or cooked.
Used as a mild onion flavoring in cooking.