Calochortus gunnisonii Mariposa lily (Calochortaceae)

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Calochortus gunnisonii
Mariposa lily
(1 Page of 5)

The Calochortus gunnisonii plant species is found in Southwestern N. America - Rocky Mountains. It is a member of the Calochortaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Mariposa lily.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Calochortus gunnisonii
Common Name:  Mariposa lily
Family:  Calochortaceae
Author:  S.Wats.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.3   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Grassy hillsides and open coniferous woods[60]. Found in a variety of habitats from moist meadows and open woods to sandy and rocky hillsides and dry gulches between 1,200 and 3,300 metres[214].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a deep very well-drained fertile sandy soil in a sunny position and must be kept dry from mid summer to late autumn[1, 60, 200]. This is a rather difficult plant to cultivate in Britain, it is very cold hardy but is intolerant of wetness especially in the winter[1, 42]. It is easiest to grow in a bulb frame but is worth trying outdoors at the base of a south-facing wall, especially with shrubs that like these conditions[120]. Bulbs can be lifted as soon as the foliage dies down in the summer and stored overwinter in a cool dry place, replanting in the spring[138]. The bulbs must be replanted immediately according to another report[1]. Bulbs frequently divide after flowering, the bulblets taking 2 years to reach flowering size[200]. This species is closely related to C. ambiguus[214]. Hand pollination is necessary if seed is required[1].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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