Brodiaea (Triteleia) Bulbs

Why should you choose brodiaea bulbs?

Brodiaea bulbs, also known as Triteleia, are a fantastic choice for gardeners seeking delicate yet striking blooms. With their clusters of star-shaped flowers on slender stems, they bring a touch of elegance to any border or planting scheme. Their subtle beauty and soft colours make them highly versatile, blending seamlessly into a variety of garden styles.

One of the key benefits of brodiaea bulbs is their adaptability. They thrive in well-drained soil and sunny locations, making them ideal for borders, rockeries, or naturalised planting. Their modest height of around 30 cm allows them to complement other perennials and bulbs without overwhelming the design. They also make excellent cut flowers, adding a graceful touch to floral arrangements.

For gardeners looking for reliable, long-lasting blooms that require minimal care, brodiaea bulbs are a superb option. Their ability to harmonise with different planting schemes and their understated charm make them a worthy addition to any garden.

Stephen’s brodiaea bulbs top picks

Stephen Teeuw is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. At Peter Nyssen, we offer a wide variety of brodiaea to satisfy the needs of any gardening enthusiast. Here are Stephen’s top picks:

• Queen Fabiola: The small bulbs can be temperamental to start but once they have found the right place in the garden they will flourish for years.

• Triteleia Hyacinthina: Like a small white allium this is a delicate flower for mid summer. Well worth growing for cutting too!

How to plant brodiaea bulbs

Planting brodiaea bulbs is easy, and with the right care, they’ll reward you with elegant clusters of blooms. Follow these steps to ensure success:

Choose the right location: Brodiaea thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Select a spot with well-drained soil, such as borders, rockeries, or naturalised areas.

Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil and mix in compost or grit to improve drainage, especially if the soil is heavy. Brodiaea prefers slightly sandy or loamy soil for optimal growth.

Plant at the correct depth: Plant the bulbs 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) deep with the pointed end facing upwards. Space them about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to allow the plants room to grow and spread.

Water thoroughly: After planting, water the area well to help the soil settle around the bulbs. While brodiaea is drought-tolerant once established, it’s important to keep the soil moist during the initial growth phase.

Mulch for added benefits: Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. This is particularly helpful in areas with variable weather conditions.

By following these simple steps, your brodiaea bulbs will establish well and reward you with graceful, star-shaped flowers that enhance any garden setting. Whether in borders or as cut flowers, they’ll bring a touch of charm to your space.

Why choose Peter Nyssen bulbs?

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience

• Our bulbs are packaged in compostable, starch-based bags where possible

• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50

• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 

• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

FAQs

When is the best time to plant brodiaea bulbs?

The best time to plant brodiaea bulbs is in autumn before the ground freezes or in early spring. This gives the bulbs time to establish roots over the winter, ensuring strong growth and beautiful blooms in late spring or early summer.

Where should I plant brodiaea bulbs?

Brodiaea bulbs thrive in full sun but can tolerate light shade. They are ideal for borders, rockeries, and naturalised areas. Ensure the planting location has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging.

How deep should I plant brodiaea bulbs?

Plant brodiaea bulbs about 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) deep with the pointed end facing upwards. Space them 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to give the plants room to grow and create a naturalised look.

Can brodiaea bulbs be grown in containers?

Yes, brodiaea bulbs can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container is placed in a sunny spot. Their elegant stems and blooms work beautifully in patio displays or smaller garden spaces.

How do I care for brodiaea after they’ve finished blooming?

After blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the bulbs store energy for the following year. Water sparingly during their dormant period and avoid disturbing the bulbs to ensure healthy growth in future seasons.

Need more help?

Add a touch of elegance to your garden with our beautiful brodiaea bulbs. Perfect for borders, rockeries, and naturalised planting, these delicate, star-shaped flowers will bring effortless charm and grace to your outdoor spaces. Their versatility and long-lasting blooms make them a fantastic choice for any garden style.

Browse our range of premium brodiaea bulbs today and create a stunning display that lasts throughout the season. For expert tips and planting advice, visit our brodiaea planting guide or get in touch—we’re here to help you every step of the way!