SafePlants

Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus)

The Calochortus macrocarpus, commonly known as the sagebrush mariposa lily, is a striking wildflower found in specific regions of North America. Its beauty and resilience make it an interesting subject for study and admiration.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows from a bulb, which may be of interest to digging pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calochortus macrocarpus
• Common Names: Sagebrush mariposa lily, Green-banded mariposa lily, Sagebrush Mariposa Tulip
• Family: Liliaceae (Lily family)
• Genus: Calochortus
• Variety: Calochortus macrocarpus Douglas var. maculosus (A. Nelson &amp J.F. Macbr.) A. Nelson &amp J.F. Macbr.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to northwestern United States and a small part of southern British Columbia.
• Specifically found in semi-arid eastern Washington, Central Okanagan around Okanagan Lake BC, Mount Bisbee (by Trout Lake) Washington, and the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Oregon.
• Grows on well-drained soils in sagebrush grasslands and grassy forest openings.
• Prefers elevations between 900 m and 1300 m.
• Also inhabits sagebrush slopes, grasslands, and open forests in steppe environments.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial herb growing from a deep-seated bulb.
• Stout, erect, and unbranched stem, typically 2-7 dm (approximately 8-20 inches) tall.
• Leaves are linear and concave-convex.
• Showy, tulip-like flowers displaying petals, sepals, and stamens in multiples of three.
• Flowers are hermaphrodite (possessing both male and female reproductive organs).
• Typically bears 1-3 flowers.

Ecological Role

• A foothill plant that blooms in mid- to late summer on dry sagebrush slopes.

Quirky Facts

• The plant was collected by Lewis and Clark.
• The Northern Paiute people refer to it as "ko&#729gi&#39".

Traditional Uses

• Historically used for medicinal purposes.

Additional Information

• Hardy to zone (UK) 3.
• Blooms from April to June.