Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ AC8Aedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

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 →
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Calandrinia ciliata menziesii (Redmaids) — botanical photograph
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
I

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. These plants thrive in full sun and can adapt to various soil types, with a preference for light (sandy) conditions. Redmaids are known for their edible parts—leaves, shoots, and seeds—which can be consumed fresh or dried. They are often used in salads or prepared as a potherb by cooking them gently. The plant typically reaches a height of only 0.1 meters, making it ideal for smaller garden spaces or as part of a border. While not medicinal, Redmaids offer both ornamental and culinary value, enhancing gardens with their presence. 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.

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. These plants thrive in full sun and can adapt to various soil types, with a preference for light (sandy) conditions.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

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. 1

    What you'll need

    Redmaids seeds, small pots or garden space, potting soil.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Redmaids in spring after the last frost.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose a pot with drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds outdoors once the soil is warm, or start them indoors 4 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Prune occasionally for shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Trim back spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sun exposure.

VI

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
VII

Distribution

26 native · 12 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 26 native· 12 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, New South Wales, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, West Himalaya, Western Australia
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Calandrinia ciliata menziesii (Redmaids) — botanical photograph
Redmaids (Calandrinia ciliata menziesii)
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · ac8a3cef-2313-4d26-8b25-fcb48bb49fcd
Decision aid
Choosing between Redmaids and something else?
Compare with another plant

Continue reading

❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates

Get archive updates

Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes