Dichelostemma ida-maia is the most widely grown variety of this interesting genus. Commonly called the ‘Firecracker Plant’, this long flowering perennial is native to the woodlands, coastal grasslands and mountainous regions of the western USA.
A member of the asparagus family, it is grown for its vivid spring display and its ability to attract bees and other pollinators into the garden. With spring rainfall it is reasonably drought tolerant once established and is well suited to low water gardens and containers.
Distinctive Flowers and Growth Habit
The flowers are best described as cigar shaped, tubular blooms in brilliant crimson red with reflexed green to yellow-green tips. They appear in tight terminal clusters or umbels, usually carrying between 6 and 20 flowers per stem.
Held high on long leafless stems to nearly 1 metre tall, the flowers put on an excellent display in garden beds or pots and also make a long lasting cut flower.
At the base of the plant are narrow, grass-like leaves which begin growing in late autumn. Flowering begins from spring through to early summer, often as the foliage starts to die back.
Grown from Corms Rather Than Bulbs
Although commonly referred to as a bulb, Dichelostemma ida-maia actually grows from a corm — an underground storage organ similar in appearance to a small sweet potato tuber.
The corms can be left undisturbed for 4–5 years before they benefit from lifting and division. This is best done once the foliage has completely died back in late summer.
How to grow Dichelostemma ida-maia – Basic Care
Dichelostemma ida-maia requires a sunny position and a well drained soil. It will also tolerate part shade, especially in warmer climates.
Preparing the Soil
Prepare the soil by weeding thoroughly and digging through good amounts of compost and aged cow manure before planting.
Planting
Plant corms from summer through to autumn when they become available for sale.
- Plant at around 10cm (4 inches) deep
- Space plants approximately 8cm (3 inches) apart
- Suitable for garden beds, borders and containers
Watering
When the new foliage and flower shoots appear, water deeply once a week until flowering finishes.
After flowering, watering can be reduced or stopped altogether as the corms prefer dry conditions during dormancy through summer.
Frost Protection
In colder regions protect plants from heavy frost, particularly while young growth is emerging.
Growing Dichelostemma ida-maia in Pots
Firecracker Flower performs particularly well in containers provided drainage is excellent. Use a good quality free draining potting mix and position containers in full sun to light shade.
Terracotta pots work especially well as they help prevent excess moisture around the dormant corms during summer.
Companion Plants
Dichelostemma ida-maia combines well with other drought tolerant perennials and spring flowering plants including:
The upright flower stems contrast well against softer mounding plants and grasses.
Pollinator Friendly Gardens
The tubular flowers are highly attractive to bees and nectar feeding pollinators. Including plants such as Dichelostemma ida-maia in the garden helps support beneficial insects through spring and early summer when many plants are in active flower.
Propagation
Propagation is usually by division of corms in late summer to autumn once the plant is dormant.
Separate offsets carefully and replant immediately into well drained soil.
Problems and Maintenance
This is generally a very easy care plant with few problems provided drainage is good.
The most common issue is rot caused by wet soil during dormancy. Avoid overwatering through summer and ensure the planting position drains freely.
Remove spent flower stems after flowering if desired, however allow foliage to die back naturally as this helps replenish the corm for next season’s growth.
Where To Buy
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au