SafePlants

Calochortus weedii: Weed's Mariposa Lily

Calochortus weedii, commonly known as Weed's Mariposa Lily, is a captivating flowering plant belonging to the lily family (Liliaceae).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calochortus weedii Alph. Wood
• Family: Liliaceae (Lily family)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Calochortus weedii Wood

The text mentions several varieties:

• Calochortus weedii Alph. Wood var. weedii
• Calochortus weedii Alph. Wood var. intermedius Ownbey
• Calochortus weedii Alph. Wood var. vestus Purdy

Distribution and Habitat

Calochortus weedii is native to North America, specifically California and Baja California. It is endemic to California, found in the coastal mountain ranges, foothills, and along the coast of southern California.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Calochortus weedii is described as a perennial herb and a monocot.
• The rounded flower petals are variable in color, ranging from cream to light yellow, tan, dark purple, or red-brown.
• The flowers often feature yellow hairs, sometimes less dense in a band around the petals.
• The plant can reach about 2 feet tall, displaying yellow saucer-shaped flowers with red spots and large pink spots in the center.

Quirky Facts

• The plant is named after Weed, though the text provides no details on who that might be.
• Despite its name including "weed," the text highlights that it is considered a beautiful species.
• The flowers have fringed petals and a hairy throat.

Further Information

• Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS)
• NatureServe
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life