Water Wise Plants

ka-lo-KOR-tus LU-teus

Yellow Mariposa Lily

Perennial

.5 ft (0.2 m) wide x 1.6 ft (0.49 m) tall

Very Low: water deeply several times a summer

Full to half sun

Yellow

Calochortus luteus, or Yellow Mariposa Lily is a species of the Liliaceae endemic to California. This species is found on coastal prairie, grasslands and some open forest floors primarily in the central Coast Ranges and Sierra foothills. Like other Mariposa Lilies it grows from a bulb, with most of its growth occurring in winter, followed by spring flowering and summer dormancy. It requires good drainage and must be kept mostly dry in summer. The leaves arising directly from the bulb are strap-like and long. The flower is 3-5 centimeter across and primarily bright yellow, with sparse hair inside and often red-brown streaks or blotches. It is reported to be one of the easiest Mariposa Lilies to grow in the garden.