Sagebrush Mariposa Lily
Calochortus macrocarpus
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. 65B4 — Calochortus macrocarpus
Calochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpusCalochortus macrocarpus
IOverview
Overview
Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) is a perennial herb found in the wilds of British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its edible flowers and roots, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil that can be either dry or moist. It prefers light (sandy), medium-textured soils with a pH range of 5.7 to 7.0. Standing at about half a meter tall, the Sagebrush Mariposa Lily is recognized by its distinctive, often white or pinkish flowers with prominent greenish-yellow centers, making it a notable ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Sagebrush Mariposa Lily?
Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) is a perennial herb found in the wilds of British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its edible flowers and roots, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil that can be either dry or moist.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sagebrush Mariposa Lily thrives in full sun and prefers a well-draining soil that can be light (sandy) or medium. It is hardy in zones 3-7 and grows to about 0.5 meters tall. The plant requires dry to moist conditions, making it adaptable to various moisture levels but preferring not to sit in standing water. For cultivation, ensure the soil pH is between 5.7 and 7 for optimal growth. Harvest edible parts including flowers and roots. SKIP
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
5.7–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Sagebrush Mariposa Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Sagebrush Mariposa Lily in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Sagebrush Mariposa Lily bulbs, well-draining soil, a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early fall or late winter when the soil is cool.
- 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 5-7 cm deep, spacing them about 10 cm apart in the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rot. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water only during dry spells after the plant is established. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain appearance, but avoid disturbing the bulbs.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersRoot
Edible uses: The Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) is edible, with both its flowers and roots being consumed. The flowers are often picked fresh and used raw in salads or as a garnish. Roots can be dug up and prepared by boiling or roasting before consumption.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 7 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 65b4e495-238f-486f-b8ee-d4f2764ae75c
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