Howell's Fawn Lily
Erythronium howelliifam. Liliaceae
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Pl. C6DD — Erythronium howellii
Erythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howelliiErythronium howellii
IOverview
Overview
Howell's Fawn Lily (Erythronium howellii) is a delicate perennial found in the forests of California and Oregon. This plant thrives in partial sun to shade, requiring moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. Standing at about 30 cm tall, it is known for its ornamental value, with nodding white or pinkish-tinged flowers that resemble lilies. The fawn-like appearance of the flower gives this plant its common name. Additionally, Howell's Fawn Lily is edible; its roots can be harvested and enjoyed as a food source.
Quick answers
What is Howell's Fawn Lily?
Howell's Fawn Lily (Erythronium howellii) is a delicate perennial found in the forests of California and Oregon. This plant thrives in partial sun to shade, requiring moist, light (sandy) to medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Howell's Fawn Lily thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. It is hardy in temperate regions and grows to a height of 0.3 meters. For propagation, divide the bulbs in early spring or fall. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested carefully after the plant has flowered.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Howell's Fawn Lily for the first time
7steps
Start with Howell's Fawn Lily to gain confidence in your gardening skills.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, well-draining soil mix, and a packet of Howell's Fawn Lily bulbs.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, sandy loam soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Place bulbs 2-3 inches deep in the soil, spacing them about 4-6 inches apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and keep the soil consistently moist. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
No need to harvest; simply allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Howell's Fawn Lily (Erythronium howellii) is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Typically, it is prepared by digging up the bulbous root and either boiling it or incorporating it into dishes for a mild, nutty flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon
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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