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desert mariposa lily
Scientific Name: Calochortus kennedyi var. munzii
Family: Liliaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb, Vine
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Desert Mariposa Lily (Calochortus kennedyi)
The Desert Mariposa Lily, scientifically known as Calochortus kennedyi, is a striking wildflower native to the deserts of North America. It belongs to the lily family (Liliaceae) and is admired for its vibrant colors and resilience in arid environments.
Common Names
- Desert Mariposa
- Red Mariposa-lily
- Flame Mariposa
- Desert Mariposa Tulip
- Kennedy's Mariposa
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The text mentions that the plant has bulbs. Plant bulbs can sometimes pose a risk if ingested.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Liliaceae (Lily family)
- Synonyms: The text mentions Calochortus kennedyi Porter var. munzii Jepson as a related subordinate taxon.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the desert regions of southeastern California, western Arizona, southern Nevada, and parts of Sonora and Chihuahua (Mexico).
- Found on desert and mountain slopes, and in Joshua tree woodlands.
- Prefers habitats from 2,000 feet.
Morphological Characteristics
- The Desert Mariposa Lily is known for its bright orange ("day glow") flowers, which can also be vermilion or yellow.
- The flowers are described as clusters of bell-shaped blossoms atop short stems.
- It is a perennial forb (herbaceous flowering plant) that grows from a bulb.
- The plant's size ranges from 4 to 30 inches.
Quirky Facts
- Ancient Native Americans harvested the Mariposa Lily’s onion-like bulbs for food.
Further Information
- Encyclopedia of Life
- Discover Life