Contents
Description
The Calochortus Invenustus, commonly known as the Plain Mariposa Lily or the Plain Cat’s Ear, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Liliaceae. It is native to California and can be found in the southern part of the state, specifically in the Santa Monica Mountains, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the San Bernardino Mountains.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Calochortus |
| Species | Invenustus |
Appearance
The Calochortus Invenustus grows up to 18 inches tall and has long, narrow leaves that are up to 10 inches long. The flowers are star-shaped and range in color from white to pink to lavender. Each flower has three petals and three sepals, and in the center of the flower, there is a yellow or white disk.
Care Guide
The Calochortus Invenustus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. During the growing season, it should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Calochortus Invenustus is susceptible to spider mites and thrips. It may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis.
Habitat
The Calochortus Invenustus is native to California and can be found in the southern part of the state. It grows in open areas, including grasslands, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Calochortus Invenustus a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: How often should I water my Calochortus Invenustus?
A: This plant should be watered moderately during the growing season, about once a week.
Q: Can the Calochortus Invenustus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How long does the Calochortus Invenustus bloom for?
A: This plant blooms from late spring to early summer, usually for about two to three weeks.
Related Plants
- Calochortus albus
- Calochortus amabilis
- Calochortus coeruleus
- Calochortus kennedyi
- Calochortus luteus
References
- Calflora: Information on California plants for education, research and conservation. http://www.calflora.org/
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/home
- Wikipedia. (2021, August 30). Calochortus invenustus. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calochortus_invenustus
