Chocolate Flower

Berlandiera lyrata, commonly called chocolate flower, is a branching perennial with yellow, daisy-like flowers, maroon centers, and reddish-purple markings beneath the rays. [Santa Fe Botanical Garden](https://santafebotanicalgarden.gardenexplorer.org/taxon-752.aspx) describes its chocolate-like floral fragrance, most noticeable in the morning, and its native range in the southwestern United States and Mexico; flowering stems reach about 1–2 feet. ## Landscape use Use chocolate flower in sunny borders, rock gardens, naturalized areas, or wildflower meadows. It may grow upright or sprawl and can flower from late spring to frost. ## Siting and water [Santa Fe Botanical Garden](https://santafebotanicalgarden.gardenexplorer.org/taxon-752.aspx) recommends full sun or light shade and dry, well-drained soil. The plant tolerates dry, rocky conditions; excess moisture can encourage sprawling growth. ## Maintenance Once established, reduce supplemental watering during dry periods when rainfall is adequate. Remove spent stems after flowering if a tidier appearance is desired.