Mountain Pretty Face Seeds

Mountain Pretty Face 
California Native Perennial  Seeds
Triteleia ixioides ssp. anilina
Seeds per Package: 100

Triteleia ixioides ssp. anilina (Mountain Pretty Face) is a clump‑forming, cormous perennial native to the montane and foothill regions of California (with related populations in nearby western states). Valued for its upright umbels of funnel‑shaped, typically blue‑to‑indigo flowers held above grassy foliage, this native bulb provides late‑spring to early‑summer interest in rock gardens, native‑plant borders, and dry, Mediterranean‑style beds.

Plant Mountain Pretty Face in full sun to part shade — in hotter lowland sites it benefits from some afternoon shade. It prefers very well‑drained soils, from sandy or gritty loams to rocky slopes, and performs best in lean to moderately fertile conditions; avoid heavy, poorly drained clay or overwatering, especially in summer dormancy. Once established it is drought‑tolerant and appreciates a dry summer rest.

This species is usually propagated by corm division for reliable flowering, but it can be grown from seed. Seeds are slow to establish and benefit from cool, moist stratification; surface‑sow or barely cover in a gritty, well‑draining medium and keep cool and moist until germination, which may be intermittent and slow (weeks to months). Seeds started indoors can be pricked out and grown on for planting, but expect several seasons before first flowering. Corms are best planted after danger of frost, about 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) deep.

Plants typically reach about 8–18 inches (20–45 cm) tall with a clumping spread of roughly 6–12 inches (15–30 cm); space 6–12 inches apart to allow clump development and good airflow. Hardy in suitable Mediterranean climates and generally suited to USDA zones where summer dryness can be provided.

Mountain Pretty Face is primarily grown as an ornamental for rockeries, native and pollinator gardens, and spring displays. Flowers make attractive short‑term cut stems and the compact habit is excellent for naturalistic drifts; they are not commonly used for long‑lasting dried arrangements, though pressed blooms can be used for small crafts.