Red Maids*
Calandrinia menziesii
Care
full sun
low
Fast, Medium; .
1–1ft tall
Friendly
Prized
Succulent leaves eaten raw in salads; traditionally foraged as potherb
Grasslands and sandy areas throughout coastal and interior California, from sea level to 2000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Red Maids in full sun with fast-draining or medium-draining soil - they're extremely adaptable and will tolerate poor soil conditions. Space them about 6-12 inches apart depending on your desired density. These are annuals, so plant them in spring for summer blooms, or in fall for winter/early spring flowers in the Bay Area.
After Planting
Water weekly during establishment in your first year, then transition to minimal watering once the plant is settled - Red Maids are drought-tolerant and actually prefer dry conditions. The #1 mistake is overwatering; these succulent-leaved plants are prone to rot in soggy soil, so err on the side of dry. As an annual, Red Maids will complete their lifecycle and may self-seed for next year if you let some flowers go to seed.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Threatened; Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
critical larval host plant for spring broods in California deserts and semi-arid regions
spring pollen foraging for brood provisions
larval foodplant during spring emergence and development
early spring pollen source for native bee populations
larval foodplant during spring development
early season pollen source for native sweat bee species
early spring nectar and pollen resource
spring adult nectar source
+7 more species