SafePlants

Calochortus elegans: Elegant Mariposa Lily

Calochortus elegans is a captivating flowering plant belonging to the lily family (Liliaceae). Commonly known as the elegant Mariposa lily or cat's ear, it is admired for its delicate beauty.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• This plant grows from a bulb.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calochortus elegans Pursh
• Family: Liliaceae (Lily Family)
• Rank: Species
• Common Names: Elegant Mariposa Lily, Elegant Cat's Ear, Elegant Star Lily, Northwest Mariposa Lily
• Synonyms: Calochortus selwayensis (implied, as it is mentioned as "other names" for the plant)
• Subordinate Taxa:
  • Calochortus elegans var. elegans
  • Calochortus elegans var. nanus
  • Calochortus elegans var. oreophilus

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the western United States, from northern regions.
• Specifically mentioned habitat: Rocky soils on top of Kamiak Butte, within the transition zone between ponderosa pine forest and Palouse prairie.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a bulbous plant, growing up to 0.2 meters (approximately 8 inches) in height.
• The plant features slender, bent stems with branched clusters of a few white, star-shaped flowers.
• Flowers are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.
• It is in flower in June.

Quirky Facts

• Calochortus elegans was first collected by Meriwether Lewis on May 17, 1806.

Additional Information

• Hardy to zone (UK) 3.
• The genus Calochortus is native to North America.

Resources

• USDA Plant Profiles
• Discover Life
• Oregon Flora Project