Triteleia laxa

Triteleia laxa is part of a group of bulbous plants related to ornamental garlic, commonly called Brodiaea, producing umbels of long-lasting star-shaped flowers in bouquets. Native to the West Coast of the USA, this botanical species is characterized by pretty blue-mauve flowers striped with violet. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer, above a clump of grass-like leaves that disappear more or less early in summer. Give it a place in a very sunny rockery for at least part of the day. Perfectly well-drained soil, even dry in late summer, is the secret to success with this unusual and charming plant.

Triteleia laxa belongs to the allium family, just like garlic and onions. Triteleia and Brodiaea are plants that grow from a small round bulb about 2.5cm (1in) in diameter, covered with a pearly beige tunic. Their foliage resembles a tuft of grass. It is not uncommon for it to turn yellow before flowering, which occurs in May or June depending on the climate and region. These bulbs thrive in light and well-drained soil, moist during the growing and flowering period, then drier until early autumn. They are usually planted in autumn, like crocuses and tulips. While they are fairly frost-resistant for the most part (zones 4 to 7 depending on the species), it is advisable to protect them with a thick mulch in winter in colder regions.

Triteleia laxa grows to about 35cm (14in) in height when flowering. Vegetation resumes in autumn in mild climates, but in spring everywhere else. The bulb produces a clump of thin, linear, and narrow leaves in a vibrant green. The flowering lasts 3 to 4 weeks in late spring. Delicate, rush-like stems emerge from the foliage, carrying the umbel-shaped inflorescence. Each umbel is composed of about ten small, single star-shaped flowers, 2 to 2.5cm (1in) in diameter. Each petal is pale iridescent mauve with a dark blue-violet median line. The plant multiplies by producing bulb offsets.

Fairly hardy, down to -10/-12°C in well-drained soil, cultivate Triteleia laxa in full sun (partial shade in southern France), in a rockery, or along the edge of a dry garden. It pairs well with catnips, Stipas, and Pennisetums. Tulbaghia, a small South African plants with corms, also related to garlic, with their small pink or violet flowers, as well as variegated Alstroemerias and Ixias, make good companions for Triteleia. To fill the space left during their dormant period, consider planting them among blood-red perennial geraniums or annuals sown directly in place.