Also known as: Snakeberry, Bluebead, Yellow Bluebead Lily, Clintonia
Bluebead Lily (Clintonia borealis) grows in the forests of the eastern United States. Its name is in commemoration of DeWitt Clinton, a former New York governor and senator. It only grows in shaded places. Bluebead Lily fruit is unpleasant-tasting and mildly poisonous.
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Late spring, Summer
Bloom Time
20 cm to 50 cm
Plant Height
30 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
1.9 cm
Flower Size
Black, Blue
Fruit Color
Yellow, Green, Gold
Flower Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
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Toxicity
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Images of Bluebead Lily
Attributes of Bluebead Lily
Growth Rate
Manifesting a moderate growth rate, bluebead Lily flourishes in spring, displaying optimal vitality. This moderate speed allows for balanced leaf development and flowering, ensuring the plant's resilience. Although growth speeds fluctuate seasonally, spring growth significantly shapes bluebead Lily's annual lifecycle. The plant's distinctive blue flowers are an intriguing result of this spring-centric growth phenomenon.
Culture
Symbolism
Protection, Breaking love spells. It is used to symbolize Danger, Caution and deadly beauty. Yellow: I'm walking on air. Gaiety white: Sweetness, Purity tiger: Wealth, pride Orange: Wealth Calla: Beauty day
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Toxicity
Bluebead Lily can cause mild toxic reactions if ingested by humans, particularly due to its berries. The berries aren't typically attractive to humans, but children or mistaken foragers might eat them, thinking they're safe.
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Water:
Bluebead Lily thrives in cool, damp soil, resembling its forest understory origin. It prefers balanced moisture and is moderately drought-tolerant. Weekly watering is recommended, along with mulching to retain moisture and stabilize temperature, crucial for its growth and water balance.
Fertilize:
Fertilize bluebead Lily semi-annually with balanced nutrition fertilizers to promote growth and blooms. Use a low-strength solution during the growing season, reducing application as dormancy approaches. Water before fertilizing to safeguard roots and adjust feeding for optimal vigor and fruit yield.
Pruning:
Bluebead Lily features lance-shaped leaves and blue berries, requiring minimal pruning. Prune in early spring by removing dead foliage. Avoid heavy clipping due to its slow growth. Regular maintenance enhances appearance and airflow, reducing disease risk. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts.
Propagation:
Bluebead Lily propagates mainly through its tubers, with new shoot development indicating successful propagation. Spring is the best time for tuber separation and replanting, promoting healthy and vigorous growth.
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