Star Tulip
Calochortus elegans
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Pl. 2A6F — Calochortus elegans
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IOverview
Overview
Star Tulip, scientifically known as Calochortus elegans, is a delicate member of the lily family native to the western United States, specifically found in California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various environments with light or medium soil types. Standing at about 0.2 meters tall, Star Tulip is recognized for its edible roots, which add a unique flavor to culinary dishes. Its distinctive features include striking white petals with a golden center, often compared to the appearance of a star, hence its common name.
Quick answers
What is Star Tulip?
Star Tulip, scientifically known as Calochortus elegans, is a delicate member of the lily family native to the western United States, specifically found in California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Star Tulip thrives in full sun and prefers light to medium soil that is well-draining. It can handle both dry and moist conditions but generally requires less water once established. Hardy from zones 3-7, this plant grows to about 0.2 meters tall and is native to California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Propagate via root division in the fall or by seed in spring. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested carefully for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Star Tulip for the first time
8steps
Start with Star Tulip as a simple, low-maintenance project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Star Tulip bulbs or seeds, potting soil, small containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in fall, around September to October, before the first frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix with sand for good aeration. Containers should be at least 10 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs about 5 cm deep, spacing them 7-10 cm apart. For seeds, sow in the soil surface and cover lightly.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged during germination. Monitor for any signs of mold or rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure once established. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
No need to harvest; focus on maintaining healthy foliage until it naturally dies back.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Star Tulip (Calochortus elegans) is edible and its root can be consumed. Typically, the roots are dug up and either eaten raw or cooked. They can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 5 native
Broader regions
native:California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 2a6f4a23-2562-4519-8a76-f460be9146e2
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