Mariposa Lily
Calochortus gunnisoniifam. Liliaceae
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Pl. 4F3B — Calochortus gunnisonii
Calochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisoniiCalochortus gunnisonii
IOverview
Overview
Mariposa Lily (Calochortus gunnisonii) is a delicate forb or herb native to the western United States, found in Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with light to medium soil. It can grow up to 0.3 meters tall and is known for its edible parts, including flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds. Its distinctive features include a light pink or white flower with three petals and a prominent spur at the back, setting it apart from other species in the Calochortus genus.
Quick answers
What is Mariposa Lily?
Mariposa Lily (Calochortus gunnisonii) is a delicate forb or herb native to the western United States, found in Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with light to medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mariposa Lily thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also benefits from moist soil during the growing season. Hardy in zones 3-7, this plant grows to about 0.3 meters tall and is found naturally in Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Propagate through seed or division of the rootstock. The edible parts include flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mariposa Lily for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Mariposa Lily in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Mariposa Lily bulbs, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late summer or early fall when the soil is still warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Amend soil with sand for better drainage if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep, spacing them about 6-8 inches apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the bulb. Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water only during dry spells after the plant is established. Mulch around the base for winter protection.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain a neat appearance, but avoid disturbing the bulb.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootSeed
Edible uses: The Mariposa Lily can be eaten in various parts including flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds. The flowers are often picked when open and used fresh or dried for decorative purposes or teas. Leaves and roots may be harvested and prepared by boiling to make a vegetable-like dish. Seeds can also be gathered and consumed after roasting.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 7 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Colorado, Montana, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Liliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Liliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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