Splendid Mariposa Lily
Calochortus splendens · Liliaceae
- Form
- Bulb
- Height
- 1-2 ft
- Sun
- Full Sun
- Water
- Low
- Blooms
- Apr, May, Jun
- Pet toxicity
- Unknown
- Habitat
- Chaparral · Grassland · Oak Woodland
🌿 California native
Quick facts
- Habitat: Chaparral, Grassland, open woodland
- Form / size: Bulb wildflower, 1-2 ft
- Sun: Full sun to light shade · Water: Winter rain, dry summer
- Blooms: Spring · Pollinator value: Moderate
Description
A graceful bulb wildflower with upright stems and large cup-shaped pink to lavender flowers. The petals often have darker markings and a silky glow that makes the plant stand out in spring grass.
Wildlife & pollinators
Native bees and beetles visit the flowers. The plant is part of the spring bulb layer that can vanish visually after bloom.
Habitat & range
Open chaparral, grassland, woodland margins, and post-fire or lightly disturbed native slopes in Southern California.
In the garden
Beautiful but specialized. It needs excellent drainage, winter moisture, summer dryness, and patience while bulbs settle in.
Propagation
From seed or bulbs. Seed-grown plants take years to flower; do not dig wild bulbs.
Where to see it near you
- iNaturalist — observed in Southern California
- Spring grasslands, chaparral openings, and open woodland edges.
Problems
Easy to lose under summer irrigation or heavy mulch. Mark locations so dormant bulbs are not disturbed.
