SafePlants

Clay Mariposa Lily (Calochortus argillosus)

The Calochortus argillosus, commonly known as the Clay Mariposa Lily, is a beautiful flowering plant belonging to the lily family (Liliaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the bulbs and flowers of the Yellow Mariposa Lily (Calocortus luteus), a related species, are edible. While this does not directly pertain to Calochortus argillosus, it implies that members of this genus may contain substances that warrant consideration if ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that the bulbs and flowers of the Yellow Mariposa Lily (Calocortus luteus), a related species, are edible. While this does not directly pertain to Calochortus argillosus, it implies that members of this genus may contain substances that warrant consideration if ingested by children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calochortus argillosus
• Family: Liliaceae (Lily Family)
• Synonym: Calochortus argillosus (Hoover) R. Zebell &amp P. Fiedler
• Common Name: Clay Mariposa Lily

Distribution and Habitat

• Calochortus argillosus is endemic to coastal central California, US.
• It thrives in open grassy clay meadows and slopes.
• Specific locations mentioned include San Luis Obispo, Irish Hills Natural Reserve, Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve (Redwood City, CA), Henry W. Coe State Park, and Mount Diablo.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The Clay Mariposa Lily is described as a perennial herb.
• It is a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• One photo shows a Clay Mariposa Lily with an insect.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Calochortus argillosus.
• Wikimedia Commons has media related to Calochortus argillosus.