How to Grow Colvillei
iNaturalist
Colvillei
Ipomopsis aggregata
flowerColvillei, also known as scarlet gilia, is a striking wildflower native to western North America with brilliant scarlet-red tubular flowers arranged in dense clusters. The plant typically grows 1-3 feet tall with delicate, feathery foliage and attracts hummingbirds and pollinators. It thrives in arid and semi-arid conditions, making it an excellent choice for dry gardens and xeriscape landscapes.
When should you plant Colvillei in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Colvillei timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Colvillei
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Colvillei blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Colvillei dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, tolerates zone 10 with afternoon shade
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Get my Colvillei timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout with tiny cotyledons; light is critical for germination
Keep soil slightly moist but not wet; provide light exposure; germination occurs in 10-14 days at 60-70°F
Seedling
3-4 weeksDevelops first true leaves; forms delicate fern-like foliage; growth is slow initially
Provide bright indirect light; keep soil lightly moist; thin seedlings to appropriate spacing; avoid overwatering
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant grows taller with increasingly feathery foliage; develops woody base; gradually becomes more robust
Reduce watering as plant becomes established; no fertilizer needed in poor soil (plant actually prefers lean conditions); stake if needed in windy locations
Flowering
6-8 weeksDense clusters of brilliant scarlet-red tubular flowers appear at stem tips; flowers open progressively from bottom to top
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming; ensure excellent drainage; water only during extended drought; enjoy hummingbird visits
Seed Production & Senescence
4-6 weeks until frostFlowers fade; seed pods develop; plant begins to decline as energy goes into seed production
Allow flowers to remain on plant if collecting seeds; harvest seed pods before they fully dry and shatter; plant may self-sow if seeds reach soil
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water; use neem oil if severe; ensure adequate air circulation
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Spray water jet to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good drainage to reduce stress
Uses
Hummingbird Nectar Source
CulinaryColvillei's abundant tubular flowers are a primary nectar source for hummingbirds and other pollinators. The high nectar production makes it exceptionally valuable in wildlife gardens. [source]
Wildlife Garden Plantings
WildlifeWidely used in native plant gardens and xeriscapes throughout the western United States to support hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bee populations. Creates dramatic focal points while supporting local ecosystems. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
HouseholdIdeal for water-wise gardens, rock gardens, and arid landscapes. Requires minimal maintenance once established and eliminates the need for supplemental irrigation in most climates. [source]
Ornamental Cut Flowers
CraftStriking scarlet flowers can be cut for arrangements, though they are more valued in the garden for their ongoing display and pollinator attraction throughout the growing season. [source]
Traditional Native Use
MedicinalHistorically used by Native American peoples in the southwestern United States for various medicinal purposes, though modern documentation is limited. Contains alkaloids of ethnobotanical interest. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Allow flowers to bloom for garden display and hummingbird attraction. For seed collection, wait until seed pods dry and turn brown (late summer to early fall), then cut stems and collect seeds from open pods. Dry seeds further indoors and store in cool, dry conditions. Plant self-seeds readily if allowed.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Colvillei is named after the Colville family and exhibits remarkable adaptation to desert conditions, often flowering in the second year after seed production to ensure survival in arid environments.
- 🌱 The brilliant red flowers are specially adapted to hummingbird vision and feeding behavior; hummingbirds are so attracted that they will visit Colvillei plantings multiple times daily during blooming season.
- 🌱 In its native habitat, Colvillei often grows at elevations between 4,000-9,000 feet and frequently naturalizes in disturbed areas, roadsides, and dry washes throughout the western United States.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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