Inflated Jewel Flower

(Streptanthus inflatus)

Inflated Jewel Flower (Streptanthus inflatus)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 4" - 21"
High Temp. 91°F - 101°F
Low Temp. 31°F - 34°F

Summary

Streptanthus inflatus, commonly known as Inflated Jewel Flower, is a perennial herb that is native to the chaparral and open woodlands of California, particularly in the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges. It is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers. This plant typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). The Inflated Jewel Flower is characterized by its unique inflated, pouch-like purple to reddish-purple flowers that bloom in the spring and are quite showy, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The Inflated Jewel Flower is appreciated for its unusual flowers and ability to thrive in dry, rocky conditions, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and native plant landscapes. It is also valued for its low water requirements, making it an excellent plant for water-wise gardens. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and well-drained soils, preferably sandy or loamy. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it may benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. There are no widely known cultivars of this species, and it is generally grown from seed. Potential problems include root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Orange
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Chaparral and open woodlands of California

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Streptanthus inflatus, Caulanthus inflatus

GBIF Accepted Name: Streptanthus inflatus