Wild Hyacinth (Dichelostemma pulchellum)

Family: Alliaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Dichelostemma pulchellum is a CORM growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet flavour, it may seem rather flat at first, but the taste quickly grows on one. — Corm - raw or cooked.; A sweet flavour, it may seem rather flat at first, but the taste quickly grows on one.; A slow baking develops the sweetness of the corm.; The corm can be dried and ground into a powder then used as a thickener in soups or mixed with cereal flours to make bread etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Plains and hillsides on dry open ridges and grassy meadows to 1800 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)