Family: Polemoniaceae
Author: Benth.
Bibliography: Edwards’s Bot. Reg. 19: t. 1622 (1833)
Year: 1833
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Gilia
Vegetable: False
Observations: California
Description
Bird’s-eyes (Gilia tricolor)
Bird’s-eyes, scientifically known as Gilia tricolor, is a charming annual herb native to California. This delicate plant is a member of the Polemoniaceae family, commonly called the phlox family, which comprises a variety of flowering plants recognized for their striking beauty and ecological significance.
Bird’s-eyes captures attention with its intricate flowers that exhibit a unique tricolor pattern. Each bloom typically showcases a blend of white, yellow, and blue or purple, creating an eye-catching contrast that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. This coloration not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also plays a critical role in the plant’s reproductive success through pollinator attraction.
The plant thrives in well-drained soils and sunny environments, characteristic of the Californian landscape. It is often found in open woodlands, grasslands, and sometimes along roadside verges, where it flourishes during the spring season. Bird’s-eyes contribute to the biodiversity of these ecosystems, often appearing in clusters that form colorful carpets over the terrain.
Gilia tricolor’s botanical interest extends beyond its appearance. It was first documented in the scientific literature in 1833, as detailed in Edwards’s Botanical Register. The botanist Benth. was instrumental in its classification, providing an important reference point for subsequent botanical research and conservation efforts.
In gardens, Bird’s-eyes are valued for their low maintenance and vibrant display. Gardeners cultivate them not only for their ornamental appeal but also for their role in supporting local ecosystems. As with many native plants, they require less water and are more resistant to pests compared to non-native species, making them an eco-friendly choice for sustainable gardening.
In summary, Bird’s-eyes (Gilia tricolor) is a quintessential example of Californian flora that brings both beauty and ecological benefits. Its striking flowers, adaptability, and ecological role underscore its importance in both natural and cultivated landscapes.
Common Names
Eng: bird’s-eye gilia, bird’s-eyes
Deu: dreifarbige gilie
Dan: trefarvet blåhoved
Swe: bukettgilia
Ces: gilia trojfarebná
Hun: tarka gomolyvirág
Nob: spraglegilia
Nno: spreklegilia
En: Bird’s-eyes, Bird’s-eye gilia
Zh: 三色介代花
Cs: Proměnka trojbarvá, Gilia trojfarebná
Da: Trefarvet blåhoved
Et: Kolmevärviline giilia
Fi: Kirjokiurunkukka
De: Dreifarbige Gilie
Hu: Tarka gomolyvirág
Nb: Spraglegilia
Nn: Spreklegilia
Es: Ojos de pájaro
Sv: Bukettgilia
Zh-tw: 三色介代花
Synonyms
- Navarretia tricolor ((Benth.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Czechoslovakia (introduced)
- Masachusettes (introduced)
- South European Russi (introduced)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Jun 29, 2021 by Mercator Ute (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Dr. Matthias Herzog (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 5, 2021 by Ling TAN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 5, 2021 by Ling TAN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 22, 2020 by Valerie (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 8, 2022 by Dennis Wycisk (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 27, 2016 by sibiria (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2019 by Robert McDonell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2020 by Hans-Werner Neumann (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 14, 2020 by ophelie wirth (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Mar 18, 2015 by EOL − paloma (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 18, 2015 by EOL − paloma (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 7, 2015 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)
Taken Apr 3, 2012 by EOL − James Maughn (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 4, 2012 by EOL − Anita (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Mar 10, 2016 by EOL − James Maughn (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 5, 2010 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2011 by EOL − Brian Gratwicke (cc-by)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5341558)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:110469-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Gilia tricolor Benth.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb