How to Grow and Care for Triteleia

Grassnut (Triteleia laxa) is also known as Ithuriel’s Spear, because its blooms resemble the shape of a spear. Grassnut blooms in spring and summer and makes a striking presentation when planted in larger groups. It can be propagated by dividing the corms from which the plants grow.

The Triteleia grandiflora is a flowering plant that can be found in western North America. It grows in grasslands, forests, woodlands, and sagebrush. It serves as a food source for wild rodents and livestock. The bulb from its root is edible with a sweet nut-like flavor. It can be used like potatoes.

Golden brodiaea (Triteleia ixioides) is a perennial herb species native to California. Golden brodiaea is also known as prettyface and goldenstar. This species grows in coastal and inland coniferous forests.

Fool's onion (Triteleia hyacinthina) grows wild in the western reaches of North America. It grows best in environments with wet winters and dry summers. As the name suggests fool's onion is not truly a type of onion. It can be eaten, however, and would typically be prepared like a potato. Fool's onion flowers are also attractive additions to floral arrangements.

It is an attractive perennial flower often planted as an ornamental. The plant sends up long, erect green stems which branch near the top into several smaller stems which bear the blooms. The flowers are bright purple or lavender, tubular at first and then opening into six-pointed star shapes.