subject: Introducing Ball Head Cluster Lily (brodiaeacongesta) [print this page] Elegant, beautiful and showy - these are words used to describe the ball head cluster lily (Brodiaeacongesta) and for obvious reasons, too. When abundant in wildflower fields and in gardens, the entire place seems to be covered in a vivid, vibrant and vavavoom deep purple carpet. Many will even say that the ball head cluster lily is the flirty lily because of its deep coloration coupled with dainty yet showy petals.
The herb can be found in many areas of North America including the San Juan Islands, Columbia River Gorge, Sierra Nevada and California, among others. Its main habitats are grassy, lightly to open forested slopes although the herb can also be cultivated in yards, gardens and nurseries.
The perennial wildflower is well-known and well-loved for its flowers, as previously mentioned. The inflorescence consists of tight clusters of several flowers with colors ranging from deep purple, lavender and bright purple to relatively unique bluish-purple petals.
These petals form small tubes measuring 2 centimeters long with the tips spreading midway but there are cases when the flowers open up to become flattish in shape. There are 3 fertile stamens within the flower itself.
The flowers bloom from May to June. In many areas, it blooms from spring to early summer, too, depending on the care provided. You will love how these plants look amazing when grown in rock gardens, or planted as woodland borders, or cultivated in sunny perennial gardens.
The best companion plants for the ball head cluster lily are Fritillaria, Erythronium, Dodecatheon, Lupinus, Triteleia, Lilium and Dichelostemma. Just mix and match these plants so that you can achieve your desired appearance but one thing is sure: the ball head cluster lily can hold its ground.
The leaves measure 60 centimeters long and 3 centimeters wide, at least. These are flattened with a noticeable keel on their lower side, almost like blades of grass, which emerge from late winter until early spring. Keep in mind that the foliage can become dormant even before blooming when the season is dry but this is normal.
The best growing conditions for ball head cluster lily are:
a. Partial sun and shade from 40% to 60%
b. Mostly shady conditions of 60% to 80%
c. Dry hydrology
d. Low elevations
e. Moist but well-drained; in summer, the best condition is dry so there is no need for supplemental water.
If you are looking for showy, deep purple flowers sans the complicated care, go for the ball head cluster lily now!
