Calochortus nitidus

(c) Evan M. Raskin, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Evan M. Raskin via iNaturalist

Species

Broadfruit Mariposa Lily

Calochortus nitidus

A striking perennial lily with elegant flowers and narrow leaves, native to western U.S.

Also known as: Broadfruit Mariposa Lily

Calochortus nitidus, commonly known as the Broadfruit Mariposa Lily, is a perennial herb native to the western United States, particularly found in California and parts of Oregon. This species typically grows to a height of 12 to 30 inches, exhibiting a graceful, upright form. The leaves are narrow and linear, emerging from the base of the plant, while the flowers are strikingly beautiful, featuring three petal-like tepals that are often white or pale yellow with purple markings, blooming in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a capsule that contains several small seeds, which are dispersed by wind and water, aiding in its propagation across its native range.

Care Guide

🌱 Hardiness Zone
Zone 6–9
🪨 Soil
well-drained sandy
☀️ Light
full sun
💧 Water
moderate
🌿 Fertilization
light annual feeding

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Browse This Plant's Classification

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Magnoliophyta
Class Liliopsida
Order Liliales
Family Liliaceae
Genus Calochortus
Species Calochortus nitidus