Dear all; Just surfacing after deadlines, I have been reading all the commentary. I have tried only 2 species here in Kansas City. Dichelostemma ida-maia has been short lived, bloomed once then dwindled. Might need better drainage. Dichelostemma congestum (which sounds like a near serious bowel ailment) has proven hardier, but not terribly satisfactory, After perhaps 5 years I have a fewer bulbs scattered around and in bloom now. Flower heads seems smaller than their first year. Not showy enough, but perhaps again better siting might encourage them. I suspect they do best 'en masse'. Have not tried any others, but always willing to give them a try. Best Jim W. -- Dr. James W. Waddick 8871 NW Brostrom Rd. Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711 USA Ph. 816-746-1949 E-fax 419-781-8594 Zone 5 Record low -23F Summer 100F +