Dichelostemma volubile aka Twining Snakelily

Dichelostemma volubile is a corm-forming plant native to California. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Common names include twining brodiaea and snake lily. It grows in a temperate climate. In the wild, it climbs through shrubs on open or bushy slopes. These sites may have clay or granite beneath them. Its recorded habitat lies below about 2,460 feet [750 metres].

The plant grows from an underground corm and reaches about 12 feet [3.6 metres]. Its climbing growth lets it use nearby shrubs for support. This gives it a different role from a low-growing border plant. Allow room for its stems to climb when choosing a site. Plants For A Future records flowering in July. Each flower has both male and female organs. Plants raised from seed may begin to flower within two years.

Choose a place with sun or light shade. A sunny woodland edge is one suggested garden setting. Sites beside south-facing or west-facing walls are also listed. The plant prefers rich sandy loam, but drainage matters more than soil type. It can grow in other soils where water drains well. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. Give it ample moisture while it grows. Then provide a warm, dry spell from late summer into autumn.

Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 8–11. It also warns that severe winters may call for protection. A dry organic mulch can protect the planting in late autumn. Remove that cover in spring. A cloche offers another way to shelter the ground. Wet winter soil can cause rot. Young seedlings also face damping off, so good airflow matters. These moisture needs make careful siting important, even where winter temperatures suit the plant.

Sow fresh seed in a cold frame using a mix that drains well. Stored seed can be sown there in spring. Germination may take one to three months at 59°F [15°C]. Grow young plants under glass for at least two years. Plant them out after the last expected spring frost. Flowering-size offsets can be divided in autumn. Plants For A Future lists the corm as edible, raw or cooked. It records no known hazards or medicinal uses. That hazard note does not establish safety for pets.