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Description
Calochortus Amoenus, also known as the Mariposa Lily, is a beautiful species of lily that is native to California. It is a bulbous perennial that grows up to 2 feet tall and blooms in the late spring to early summer. The flowers are cup-shaped and come in shades of pink, lavender, and white. They have distinctive markings on the petals that resemble butterfly or moth wings, hence the name Mariposa, which means butterfly in Spanish.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Calochortus |
Appearance
Calochortus Amoenus has long, narrow leaves that grow from the base of the plant. The flowers grow on long stems and have three petals and three sepals. The petals are usually pink, lavender, or white, with darker markings near the base. The flowers are about 2 inches wide and have a distinctive cup shape. The plant produces a bulb that grows underground and can be divided to propagate new plants.
Care Guide
Calochortus Amoenus prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering once established. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calochortus Amoenus is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to snails and slugs. To prevent damage from these pests, use a slug and snail bait or handpick them off the plant. The plant is also prone to root rot if the soil is too moist, so make sure the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Calochortus Amoenus is native to California and can be found in the foothills and mountains of the state. It grows in open meadows, rocky slopes, and oak woodlands. The plant is adapted to the dry summers and mild winters of California and can survive in a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calochortus Amoenus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Calochortus Amoenus can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the bulb.
Q: How often should I water my Calochortus Amoenus?
A: Calochortus Amoenus is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering once established. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Q: How do I propagate Calochortus Amoenus?
A: Calochortus Amoenus can be propagated by dividing the bulbs in the fall after the foliage has died back. Plant the bulbs in well-drained soil and water them sparingly until new growth appears.
Q: Can Calochortus Amoenus be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Calochortus Amoenus can be grown from seed, but it may take several years for the plant to reach maturity.
Related Plants
- Calochortus albus
- Calochortus amabilis
- Calochortus catalinae
- Calochortus clavatus
- Calochortus elegans
References
- Calflora: Information on California plants for education, research and conservation
- Flora of North America: Calochortus
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Calochortus
- RHS: Calochortus Amoenus
