Description
A much-loved, cute, little wildflower in the lily family, Tolmie’s cats ear is so adorable that it is sure to catch the eye of hikers and passerbys. This perennial wildflower grows from a bulb and produces a slender, sometimes-branched stem that generally grows 4″-12″ tall. At the base of the stem is a long, slender leaf that persists during flowering. The open, bell-shaped flower has white to pale pink or light purple petals that are very hairy on the inner surface, which some people think resembles a cat’s ear. Tolmie’s cats ear can be found growing in sunny oak woodlands, on open ridgelines or on dry, grassy slopes, or in openings in coniferous forest. Blooms between April and June depending on elevation. Tolerant of full sun to part shade in areas with good drainage. Many pollinators, including native bees, forage on Tolmie’s cats ear flowers.
Tolmie’s cats ear (Calochortus tolmiei) seed packets contain approximately 135 seeds per packet.
Seed Germination Instructions
30-60 days of cold-moist stratification is recommended. Sow seeds outside in fall and let nature do the stratification naturally outside, if you have cold enough winters. If you live in an area with mild winters, you may need to provide the cold-moist stratification artificially. For more information please read through the information in our Seed Germination and Propagation Reference Guide.
