Description

The scarlet gilia grows in forested settings at mid- to high elevations in the Sierra Nevada and Cascades. The finely segmented leaves form a low mound to about eight inches in height and one foot in width. In the spring one to several flower stocks rise above the foliage with a display of bright red flowers. These aerial flowers help explain the other common name for scarlet gilia: skyrocket. Plant a group of scarlet gilia in an open site where the flower show can be appreciated. It is not picky about soil and is quite drought tolerant. Note that the scarlet gilia is biennial or a short-lived perennial.