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pointedtip mariposa lily
Scientific Name: Calochortus apiculatus
Family: Liliaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Calochortus apiculatus: Pointed-tip Mariposa Lily
Calochortus apiculatus, commonly known as the Pointed-tip Mariposa Lily, is a captivating wildflower belonging to the lily family. Its delicate beauty and unique features make it a fascinating subject for plant enthusiasts.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Bulbs: The bulbs are rounded with small, pointy ends, which might be of interest to curious pets or children.
- Pointed Tips: The plant features several parts with pointed tips, including sepals, petals, and leaves. These might pose a minor risk of scratches or pokes.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Calochortus apiculatus Baker
- Family: Liliaceae (Lily family)
- Synonyms: The provided text refers to Calochortus apiculatus Baker (TSN 42835), indicating this is the accepted name in ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System).
- Etymology: The name Calochortus comes from the Greek words "kallos" (beautiful) and "chortos" (grass), while "apiculatus" refers to the pointed tip of the anthers.
Common Names
- Pointed-tip Mariposa Lily
- Mariposa Lily
- Baker's Mariposa Lily
- Pointed Mariposa
- White Mariposa Lily
- Sego Lily
- Threespot Mariposa Lily
- Sagebrush Mariposa Lily
Distribution and Habitat
Calochortus apiculatus is found in western North America. Specifically, it's noted as a common wildflower of Glacier National Park and inhabits dry and open areas.
Morphological Characteristics
- Flowers: Features three broad petals with pointed tips at the base. The petals are typically creamy or yellowish-white. Some may have a green band running down the center. A small purple spot may be present near the base of the petals.
- Sepals: Typically green, ovate to lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate in shape, with a pointed tip. They are often about 2/3 as long as the petals.
- Leaves: Parallel-veined, alternate, simple, narrow, and grass-like. Typically 3 leaves with pointed tips ranging from 0.6 to 3.6 inches (1.5 to 9 cm) long.
- Fruits: Erect linear-lanceolate capsules with a pointed tip and 3 sharp edges.
- Growth Habit: Herbaceous plant with iris-like pointy, strap-like, stiff leaves. Can grow up to two feet tall.
Quirky Facts
- The Mariposa Lily is named for the lilies that bloom beneath pines in Yosemite.
- The species name apiculatus refers to the pointed tips of its anthers.
Further Information
For more information, you can consult resources such as:
- TERMIUM (Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank)
- ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System): Calochortus apiculatus Baker (TSN 42835)
- Canadian wildflowers @fleurssauvages.ca