Avelanche Lily
Erythronium purpurascens
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Pl. 10A2 — Erythronium purpurascens
Erythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascensErythronium purpurascens
IOverview
Overview
Avelanche Lily, scientifically known as Erythronium purpurascens, is a delicate herbaceous plant native to California. This member of the Melanthiaceae family thrives in partial sun and shade environments with moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. Standing at about 0.3 meters tall, it is easily recognizable by its distinctive pinkish-purple flowers that emerge from early spring through late summer. The edible parts of this plant are its roots, which have been traditionally used for culinary purposes.
Quick answers
What is Avelanche Lily?
Avelanche Lily, scientifically known as Erythronium purpurascens, is a delicate herbaceous plant native to California. This member of the Melanthiaceae family thrives in partial sun and shade environments with moist, light (sandy) or medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Avelanche Lily thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. It grows to about 0.3 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, divide the bulbs in early spring or after flowering. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested carefully for culinary use. Ensure consistent moisture and well-draining soil for best growth.
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 Avelanche Lily for the first time
7steps
Start with Avelanche Lily to gain confidence in your gardening skills.
- 1
What you'll need
Avelanche Lily bulbs, a small trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light sand and organic matter. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 2-3 inches deep, spacing them about 4-6 inches apart in the garden or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil dries out, especially if it's dry and sunny. Mulch to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
After flowering, allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing dead leaves. Do not harvest roots for eating.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Avelanche Lily's root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is commonly dug up and either eaten raw or cooked to enhance its flavor and texture. Some may also dry the roots for later use. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:California
IXSpecimen gallery
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Specimen gallery
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 10a253bf-4ae0-4ae4-9367-c8ed77c414a9
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