Purple calandrinia

Calandrinia ciliata

Calandrinia ciliata, commonly known as redmaids or fringed redmaids, is a flowering perennial plant belonging to the Montiaceae family. Native to California and the southwestern United States, it is known for its vibrant flowers and is often found in a variety of habitats, including open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. Here's an informative description, including detailed information on its appearance, identification, and management:

Appearance:

  1. Growth Form:

    • Redmaids typically grow as low-growing, mat-forming perennials, with a spreading or trailing habit.

  2. Leaves:

    • The leaves are linear to lance-shaped and may be succulent in texture.
    • They are often arranged in basal rosettes.

  3. Flowers:

    • The flowers are the standout feature, with vibrant shades of pink, red, or magenta.
    • Each flower has five petals and a fringed or ciliate margin, which gives the plant its common name.

  4. Stems:

    • The stems are often reddish or purplish, adding to the overall attractiveness of the plant.

Identification:

  1. Vibrant Flowers:

    • The bright and colorful flowers, especially the fringed margins, are distinctive.

  2. Low-Growing Habit:

    • Redmaids typically form low-growing mats, and their trailing stems contribute to their identification.

  3. Succulent Leaves:

    • The linear to lance-shaped leaves, often succulent, are characteristic.

Habitat and Distribution:

  1. Habitat:

    • Redmaids can be found in a variety of habitats, including open fields, meadows, and disturbed areas.

  2. Distribution:

    • Native to California and the southwestern United States, it may also be cultivated in gardens and landscapes.

Management:

  1. Cultural Practices:

    • Redmaids are often appreciated for their ornamental value and are cultivated in gardens. In such settings, they may be managed through regular pruning to control their spread.

  2. Seeding:

    • Redmaids can readily reseed themselves, and their spread can be managed by controlling the development and dispersal of seeds.

  3. Weed Control:

    • In certain contexts, redmaids might be considered invasive. Selective herbicides labeled for broadleaf weed control can be used in such cases.

  4. Garden Borders:

    • Establishing defined borders or barriers can help prevent the spread of redmaids into undesired areas.

  5. Appreciation:

    • Due to their vibrant flowers, redmaids are sometimes purposely left in garden settings, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.