PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers bright direct sunlight with afternoon shade in low-elevation hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging the underground bulb to prevent rot
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 5–8; tolerates light winter frost and avoids prolonged temperatures above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear to lanceolate leaves arranged in whorls along the stem
- Flower: Recurved orange petals with dark maroon spots; nodding, trumpet-shaped blooms
- Bulb: Underground scaly bulb for seasonal nutrient storage
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once monthly. Discontinue fertilizing after flowering to support bulb dormancy
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the plant base in early spring, avoiding direct contact with the underground bulbPruning
- Remove spent flower heads to prevent seed production and conserve bulb energy
- Cut back yellowing foliage to ground level after it dies back in late autumn
- Thin overcrowded bulbs every 3–4 years in late autumn to improve airflow and nutrient access
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; ingestion of any plant part (pollen, leaves, flowers, bulbs) can trigger acute kidney failure
Humans: Ingestion of bulbs may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation; foliage poses low risk with accidental contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes wild mountain resilience and native floral beauty in Western U.S. ecosystems
Usage: Ornamental wildflower; attracts hummingbirds and native pollinators to garden landscapes
