Crowpoison (Nothoscordum bivalve)

Crowpoison

Also known as: Yellow false-garlic, Wild garlic

Crowpoison (Nothoscordum bivalve) is a perennial herb that tolerates a wide range of growing conditions. Featuring smooth hollow stems it blooms in spring through spring and sometimes again in the Fall. The bright white blossoms are accented with lovely greenish-yellow centers and make the perfect accent for rock gardens and shade gardens. Prefers full sun to medium shade and grows to 30 cm tall.

Scientific classification

Species

Crowpoison (Nothoscordum bivalve)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Early summer

Harvest Time

15 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green, Bronze

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Crowpoison

Distribution of Crowpoison

Distribution Map

Crowpoison is native to some countries in South America and North America. Not known to be an invasive plant, it can be found in woods, glades, and prairies, and gardens. It has been known to naturalize easily in rock gardens and lawns.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Parks, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Crowpoison is a popular garden perennial prized for its delicate flowers that stay open for several days during sunny weather and early spring blooming time. It is used to add color to barren landscapes and is an essential plant in any flower garden. Plant it near violet and yellow wood sorrel, verbena, and May apple for color contrast.

Symbolism

Ingratitude and naivety

Name Story

False garlic: The common name false garlic fits this plant as it does resemble a garlic plant, but not the garlic scent.

Crowpoison: It has another common name crowpoison. In Cherokee legend, it was believed that they would use this plant to create a poison that would kill the crows eating their corn.

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Care Guide for Crowpoison

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Crowpoison thrives in well-drained soils and prefers a moderate moisture regime, requiring weekly watering. This bulbous plant is commonly cultivated outdoors and benefits from seasonal rains that align with its growth cycles, ensuring optimal hydration during active periods.

Fertilize: For optimal vitality, fertilize crowpoison with a balanced formula quarterly at 1 teaspoon per gallon during vigorous growth in spring and summer. Reduce in fall and winter, and ensure soil is moist to avoid root burn. Adjust fertilization according to seasonal growth cycles.

Pruning: Crowpoison is a resilient bulbous plant featuring grass-like leaves and star-shaped flowers. Prune from early to late spring, removing dead foliage and spent blooms to stimulate growth. Use clean, sharp tools for pruning to prevent disease and manage size, ensuring optimal health.

Propagation: Crowpoison propagates easily through tubers, ideally in Spring. Successful growth is signaled by new shoots. Careful handling of tubers is crucial to prevent damage.

Repotting: Repot crowpoison every 2-3 years in spring, using well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes. Ensure the pot is appropriately sized for root growth. After repotting, water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light for optimal recovery and growth.

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