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What is Calochortus?

Niki Foster
Niki Foster
Niki Foster
Niki Foster

Calochortus is a genus of flowering bulbs in the lily family, Liliaceae. Plants in this genus have common names including mariposa, cat's ears, fairy lantern, globe lily, and star tulip. There are about 70 species of Calochortus, all native to the western half of the North American continent, and 28 species have a native range limited to the state of California. Calochortus flowers are very diverse, with many different colors, patterns, and shapes throughout the genus. Most species bloom in spring or summer.

Native California species of Calochortus include C. albus or the white globe lily, which features pale, pendulous flowers, and C. amabilis or Diogenes' lantern, featuring drooping yellow flowers. C. amabilis grows only in the mountains of northern California. C. amoenus, or purple globe lily, grows only in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in central California, and has pink to purple drooping flowers. C. argillosus, or the clay mariposa lily, grows only on the coast of central California. Its flowers have three white or light pink petals, each with a spot of red, yellow, or purple at the base.

The goldenbowl mariposa lily, C. concolor, has a native range from southern California to Baja California in Mexico. It has yellow flowers with red centers. C. dunnii, or Dunn's mariposa lily, has a similar range, but lighter colored flowers.

Man mowing the grass
Man mowing the grass

C. bruneaunis, or the Bruneau mariposa lily, and C. elegans, or the elegant mariposa lily, are both found throughout dry areas of the western United States. The Bruneau mariposa lily features white, pointed petals, each with a colored spot at the center. The elegant mariposa lily has small, greenish white flowers. C. flexuosus, or the winding mariposa lily, is a light pink to lavender flower native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. C. greenei, or Greene's mariposa lily, grows in mountain forests of northern California and southern Oregon.

There are many threatened or rare species of Calochortus. C. excavatus, or the Inyo County star tulip, exists only in a few small areas in east central California. C. monanthus, or the Shasta River mariposa lily, is believed to be extinct. Rare species include C. palmeri or Palmer's mariposa lily, C. panamintensis or the Panamint Mountain mariposa lily, C. persistens or the Siskiyou mariposa lily, and C. plummerae or Plummer's mariposa lily. All of these plants are native to California, with C. persistens extending into southern Oregon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calochortus and where can it be found?

Calochortus is a genus of flowering plants in the lily family, known for their diverse and strikingly beautiful flowers, often referred to as mariposa lilies or globe tulips. They are native to the western United States and Mexico, with a high concentration in California. These plants thrive in various habitats, from grasslands to woodlands and alpine zones.

How many species of Calochortus exist, and are they all similar?

There are approximately 70 species of Calochortus, each with unique characteristics. While they share common features like bulbous roots and three-petaled flowers, variations in color, shape, and size are significant among species. Some have plain petals, while others boast intricate patterns, making each species distinctively beautiful.

What are the ideal growing conditions for Calochortus plants?

Calochortus plants prefer well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. They are adapted to a Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers. These conditions mimic their native habitats, where they often grow in areas that become quite dry after their spring flowering season, which is why they are drought-tolerant once established.

Are Calochortus flowers used for any specific purposes?

Calochortus flowers are primarily appreciated for their ornamental value, gracing gardens with their delicate beauty. Some Native American tribes have historically used the bulbs of certain species for food and the fibers for weaving. However, their primary use today is in horticulture, where they add a unique aesthetic to landscapes and wildflower gardens.

Is Calochortus easy to cultivate and care for?

Cultivating Calochortus can be challenging due to their specific soil and moisture requirements. They are best suited for gardeners with some experience or those willing to replicate their natural growing conditions. Once established, they require minimal care, but they must be protected from excessive moisture during their dormant period to prevent bulb rot.

Are there any threats to Calochortus species in the wild?

Several Calochortus species are considered rare or endangered, facing threats from habitat destruction, overgrazing, invasive species, and urban development. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these species in their natural habitats. Organizations like the California Native Plant Society work to preserve these plants and their ecosystems.

Niki Foster
Niki Foster

In addition to her role as a AllThingsNature editor, Niki enjoys educating herself about interesting and unusual topics in order to get ideas for her own articles. She is a graduate of UCLA, where she majored in Linguistics and Anthropology.

Learn more...
Niki Foster
Niki Foster

In addition to her role as a AllThingsNature editor, Niki enjoys educating herself about interesting and unusual topics in order to get ideas for her own articles. She is a graduate of UCLA, where she majored in Linguistics and Anthropology.

Learn more...

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