SafePlants

Sego Lily (Calochortus nuttallii)

The Sego Lily, scientifically known as Calochortus nuttallii, is also commonly called Mariposa Lily. It holds a special place as the state floral emblem of Utah, adopted in 1911.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions both Calochortus nuttallii and Calochortus gunnisonii as Sego Lily, and lists both as non-toxic to dogs.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calochortus nuttallii Torr. &amp A. Gray
• Common Names: Sego Lily, Mariposa Lily
• Family: Liliaceae (Lily Family)
• Synonym: Calochortus gunnisonii

Distribution and Habitat

• The Sego Lily is native to the drier regions of the American West.
• It is found in dry soil from South Dakota to Washington and south to Oregon.

Morphological Characteristics

• The Sego Lily is a bulbous perennial.
• It has a few basal, grass-like leaves and leafy stems.
• It has white, lilac, or yellow flowers.
• The flowers are bell-shaped.
• Flowers often have yellow and purple colors in the center with 3 sepals.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Mariposa" is Spanish for "Butterfly."
• "Sego" is a Shoshonean word for "edible bulb."

Ecological Role

• The text highlights the importance of distinguishing the Sego Lily from the death camass, particularly when wild-food foraging.

Historical Significance

• The Sego Lily is revered in Native American legend.
• Native Americans helped pioneers find the Sego Lily bulbs for food.
• The bulbs are described as edible.

Further Information

• USDA NRCS PLANTS Database is mentioned as a source of information and images.
• The Utah Native Plant Society publishes a newsletter called "The Sego Lily."