Leichtlin's Mariposa Lily
Calochortus leichtlinii · Liliaceae
- Form
- Perennial
- Height
- 1–3 ft
- Sun
- Full Sun
- Water
- Low
- Blooms
- Jun, Jul
- Pet toxicity
- Unknown
- Habitat
- Montane
🌿 California native
Quick facts
- Habitat: Open Montane forest, meadows, and east-side slopes
- Form / size: Bulb-forming perennial, 1–3 ft
- Sun: Full sun · Water: Low
- Blooms: Early–mid summer · Pollinator value: High
Description
A graceful mariposa lily with upright stems and open, cup-shaped yellow flowers, often marked with finer reddish or brown patterning toward the base. Like the other mariposa lilies, it looks delicate but reads clearly once in bloom: a tall stem with a few showy tulip-like cups held above narrow leaves.
Wildlife & pollinators
Visited by native bees and other flower-seeking insects. Like many bulbs, it contributes seasonal pulses of bloom more than long-term structure.
Habitat & range
Openings in Montane forest, sage edges, and meadow margins of the Sierra and nearby east-side mountain country, including the Mammoth and Bridgeport region.
In the garden
Beautiful but not carefree. Wants sharp drainage, summer dryness after bloom, and protection from rot and gophers. Best in mountain or dry-bulb gardens.
Propagation
From seed or bulb offsets. Like most Calochortus, it takes patience and good drainage.
Where to see it near you
- iNaturalist — observed across California (map)
- Common in summer around the Eastern Sierra corridor, especially near Mammoth Lakes and Bridgeport.
Sources
Commonly confused with
Yellow Rabbitbrush 🌿 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus rabbitbrush forms a shrub with many small daisy-like heads, not a single-stemmed bulb with large cup flowers. 
