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yellow mariposa

Scientific Name: Calochortus superbus

Family: Liliaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Yellow Mariposa Lily (Calochortus luteus)

The Calochortus luteus, commonly known as the Yellow Mariposa Lily, is a beautiful wildflower endemic to California.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This plant grows from a bulb.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Calochortus luteus Lindley
  • Common Names: Yellow Mariposa Lily, Yellow Mariposa, Mariposa, Sego Lily, Yellow Calochortus. The term "yellow mariposa tulip" is also used, referring to lilies with clusters of yellow bell-shaped flowers.
  • Family: Liliaceae (Lily Family)
  • Synonyms: Calochortus luteus Douglas ex Lindl.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Yellow Mariposa Lily is endemic to California and is found in many counties throughout the state.
  • It is described as growing on the east side of a lakeside flat.
  • It is associated with California coastal ranges.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Calochortus luteus grows from a bulb and reaches a height of approximately 0.3 meters (1 foot) and a width of 0.1 meters (0 feet 4 inches).
  • The plant has glabrous stems with a somewhat zig-zag axis.
  • It features large, deep yellow, bell-shaped flowers atop slender stems.

Flowering and Hardiness

  • The plant flowers from April to June.
  • It is hardy to zone (UK) 3.

Ecological Role

  • It is described as a conspicuous fire-follower.

Ethnobotanical Uses

  • Historically, the bulbs of Calochortus luteus were gathered for food by the Southern Paiute, using a digging stick. They were eaten raw or boiled, similar to potatoes.

Quirky Facts

  • The stems of the Yellow Mariposa Lily have a zig-zag appearance.
  • It is described as a fire-follower.

Further Information

  • CalPhotos provides images of the plant.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens.
  • The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information on Calochortus luteus.
  • Wikimedia Commons hosts images, including one titled "Yellow Mariposa Lily (Calochortus luteus) (5795260178).jpg."