This genus [Dichelostemma] has been considered to be a part of many different families including Alliaceae. In The Jepson Manual (1993) it was classified in Liliaceae. Recent work is now placing it in a new family, Themidaceae, which includes other California genera (Androstephium, Bloomeria, Brodiaea, Muilla, and Triteleia.) Can somebody cite a definitive technical paper that defines the boundaries of Themidaceae. I'm aware of the existance of this new family, particularly in regard to pulling Triteleia and Brodiaea out of Alliaceae, but this is the first I've heard that Muilla is also swallowed up by Themidaceae. What are the defining characteristics that separate the Themidaceae from Alliaceae? I need to be convinced, because the evidence I've evaluated thus far seems less than convincing (regarding the very existance of Themidaceae). Regarding Muilla, this is an anagram of Allium (of which there are several) to describe a closely allied genus (Muilla is Allium backwards). So it's ironic indeed, that such an ally is moved out of Alliaceae, don't you think? Mark McDonough Pepperell, Massachusetts, United States antennaria@aol.com "New England" USDA Zone 5 ============================================== >> web site under construction - http://www.plantbuzz.com/ << alliums, bulbs, penstemons, hardy hibiscus, western american alpines, iris, plants of all types!