Redmaids
Calandrinia ciliata menziesii
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. AC8A — Calandrinia ciliata menziesii
Calandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesiiCalandrinia ciliata menziesii
IOverview
Overview
Redmaids, scientifically known as Calandrinia ciliata menziesii, are annual forbs or herbs native to regions in Argentina and the western United States, including Arizona and California. This plant thrives in full sun and can adapt to various soil types, preferring light (sandy) conditions. Known for its edible parts—leaves, shoots, and seeds—Redmaids are a valuable addition to gardens not only for their ornamental value but also for culinary use. One distinctive feature is the plant's height, typically reaching only 0.1 meters, making it easy to integrate into smaller garden spaces or as part of a border.
Quick answers
What is Redmaids?
Redmaids, scientifically known as Calandrinia ciliata menziesii, are annual forbs or herbs native to regions in Argentina and the western United States, including Arizona and California. This plant thrives in full sun and can adapt to various soil types, preferring light (sandy) conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Redmaids thrive in full sun and prefer light, sandy soil that is either dry or moist. They are annual plants reaching a height of 0.1 meters and can be propagated through seeds. These hardy plants grow well in temperate regions and are native to areas including parts of Argentina, Arizona, Bolivia, British Columbia, California, and Chile. Ensure the soil remains well-drained and avoid overwatering to keep the plants healthy.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Redmaids for the first time
8steps
Start with Redmaids by planting them in a sunny spot and providing minimal care.
- 1
What you'll need
Redmaids seeds, small pots or garden space, potting soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Redmaids in spring after the last frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose a pot with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors once the soil is warm, or start them indoors 4 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Prune occasionally for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Trim back spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sun exposure.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: Redmaids are edible and can be consumed in various forms. The leaves, shoots, and seeds are typically harvested and used fresh or dried. They are often eaten raw to add a mild flavor to salads or prepared as a potherb by cooking them gently. Skip the detailed recipe; focus on these simple preparations instead.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 26 native· 4 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)United Kingdom
Americas7 regions
native (7)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorEl SalvadorGuatemalaPeruVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Chile Central, Chile South, Mexican Pacific Is., Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington
introduced:Cape Provinces, Falkland Is., Masachusettes
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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