Brodiaea are bulbous perennials with attractive funnel-shaped flowers in June and July. These can be blue, lilac or white, held at the top of slender stems on an umbel flowerhead, like a small version of an agapanthus. Like agapanthus, this plant does best in a sunny spot, sheltered from frost. Not only are brodiaea an attractive addition to an early summer border and patio pots, but they make excellent cut flowers.
These perennials originate from grasslands and dry woodland on the west coast of North America. There are around 15 species including Brodiaea californica, which has large flowerheads with around 12 lilac flowers on each, Brodiaea coronaria, with purple flowers that have white stamens and the white-flowered Brodiaea hyacinthina. Some brodiaea species have been renamed triteleia – this includes the popular Brodiaea laxa ‘Queen Fabiola’, which you’ll find described as both brodiaea and triteleia.
Brodiaea can be grown from bulbs, known as corms. Ideally, they should be planted in light soil that doesn’t get waterlogged. Although brodiaea is frost hardy, and can survive temperatures down to -5ºC, in cold regions of the UK, they are best planted in containers that can be brought under cover in winter.
How to grow brodiaea
Choose a sunny, sheltered spot for brodiaea. The bulbs can be planted in the autumn for summer flowers, in light, free-draining soil.
Where to grow brodiaea
Choose a sunny spot for brodiaea bulbs, in a mild frost-free area. Alternatively, the corms can be planted in containers in a greenhouse or conservatory.
How to plant brodiaea
Plant brodiaea corms 8-10cm deep and 5-8cm apart in well-drained soil or in containers. Avoid planting in heavy soils. Bulbs should be planted in the autumn or early spring.
How to care for brodiaea
Provide shelter from strong winds and wet weather. Brodiaea does not need pruning or deadheading. Bring plants indoors over winter if you live in an area where there are hard frosts. Otherwise, add a thick layer of mulch around plants in the autumn to protect from winter cold.
How to propagate brodiaea
To make more plants for free, pull groups of corms apart during the summer and replant, 8-10cm apart. Choose plants that are established and big enough to split apart.
Pests and diseases
Brodiaea are generally pest and disease free.
Frequently asked questions
Do brodiaea like sun or shade?
Brodiaea will flower best in full sun. Choose a south, west or east facing position, in well-drained soil.
How tall do brodiaea grow?
Brodiaea plants range from around 30cm t0 60cm tall. They make good plants for rockeries and containers.
How do you plant brodiaea bulbs in pots?
Plant brodiaea bulbs 8-10cm deep and around 5cm apart in containers. Use a loam-based compost such as peat-free John Innes, and mix in some horticultural grit to improve drainage.
Advice on buying brodiaea
- Brodiaea bulbs (corms) are sold autumn to late winter/early spring. The RHS advises planting in autumn but many nurseries sell bulbs to plant in spring
- Some species of brodiaea may also be sold under the name Triteleia
- Always check bulbs for signs of damage or disease before planting
Where to buy brodiaea
Varieties of brodiaea to grow
Brodiaea laxa ‘Queen Fabiola’ has deep blue flowers held in clusters at the top of slim stems. Height x Spread: 60cm x 8cm
Brodiaea ‘Blue Ocean Blend’ is a mix of bulbs including a dark blue, violet and white-flowering brodiaea. H x S: 50cm x 8cm
Brodiaea californica ‘Babylon’ has purple flowers that emerge facing upwards and open out into a star shape. H x S: 60cm x 8cm
