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Chocolate Flower

Berlandiera lyrata

Out of stock

1 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Sonoran Desert

Water needs:

Low-Moderate

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun; Part Shade

1’x2’

Fast

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Yellow

Late Spring-Fall

In late winter to rejuvenate

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

This perennial forms a rosette of medium green, fiddle-shaped leaves. The yellow daisy flowers with maroon centers are borne on slender stems held above the foliage. These flowers are famous for their chocolate fragrance, which is most prominent in the early mornings. Butterflies are also attracted to their nectar. If plants start to look scraggly, they can be sheared periodically to initiate fresh growth. It grows in grasslands across the Southwest from 4000 to 6000 feet. Chocolate flower’s compact size makes it ideal for use in perennial borders, or in small patio areas, where the heady fragrance can be enjoyed. Old flower heads can be removed to prolong the blooming.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.