Odontostomum is a monotypic genus of flowering plants containing the single species Odontostomum hartwegii, which is known by the common name Hartweg's doll's-lily. In the APG III classification system, it is placed in the family Tecophilaeaceae. It was formerly placed in the Liliaceae. It This wildflower is endemic to northern California, where it can be found in the inner coastal mountain ranges and the Sierra Nevada foothills. It grows in rocky clay and often serpentine soils in grassland and woodland habitat, sometimes near vernal pools. This is a perennial herb growing from an oval-shaped corm up to 3 centimeters wide deep in the soil. The curving, widely branching stem is up to about half a meter in maximum height with linear leaves up to 30 centimeters long sheathing the lower portion. The inflorescence is a raceme or panicle of several flowers on pedicels. Each flower has six white or yellowish tepals, the lower parts fused into a veined tube and the tips spreading and then becoming reflexed. At the center of the flower are six stamens and six staminodes in a ring around the gynoecium.
Hartweg's doll's-lily is fairly resistant to disease and typically not prone to illnesses. It can, however, be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment, but such infections are generally mild. As for maintenance, this plant requires a moderate level of care. It should be pruned regularly to keep a good appearance and support healthy growth, and fertilizing can help encourage flowering. Hartweg's doll's-lily is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive care experience. It may, however, need more attention when kept indoors.
How to keep Odontostomum Hartwegii.
Fertilizer
One spring application of fertilizer is generally enough for Hartweg's doll's-lily, although several feedings can help it reach its full growth potential. Apply fertilizer about every month to six weeks. Feeding improves the leaves' appearance and performance, supporting even color and a healthy texture. It also encourages root development and better nutrient uptake, benefiting the plant's long-term health.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Odontostomum
- Family
- Tecophilaeaceae
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
Other names.
