Contents
Description
Erythronium Californicum Margaret Mathew, commonly known as the California fawn lily, is a stunning spring-blooming plant that belongs to the family Liliaceae. It is native to the western regions of North America, including California, Oregon, and Washington. This perennial plant produces beautiful, nodding, yellow flowers with six petals that bloom in March and April. The leaves are green and mottled, resembling a fawn’s coat, hence the common name “fawn lily.”
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Erythronium |
Appearance
The California fawn lily grows up to 8-10 inches tall and 4-6 inches wide. Its leaves are basal and oval-shaped, measuring up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. They are mottled with brown and green, resembling a fawn’s coat. The plant produces 1-3 nodding flowers, each measuring up to 2 inches across. The flowers have six petals, which are yellow in color and slightly recurved. The stamens are yellow and prominent, and the ovary is green and superior.
Care Guide
The California fawn lily is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears.
- Soil: Plant the California fawn lily in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and can be grown under trees or in woodland gardens.
- Hardiness Zones: The California fawn lily grows best in USDA hardiness zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The California fawn lily is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use organic slug bait to control them.
- Fungal diseases: The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as root rot and leaf spot. Avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation to prevent these issues.
Habitat
The California fawn lily is native to the western regions of North America, including California, Oregon, and Washington. It grows in moist, shady areas, such as woodlands, meadows, and stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to plant the California fawn lily?
A: The best time to plant the California fawn lily is in the fall, when the soil is still warm but the weather is cooler.
Q: How often should I water my California fawn lily?
A: Water the plant regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Q: Can I grow the California fawn lily in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the California fawn lily in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: Does the California fawn lily attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the California fawn lily attracts bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the flowers.
Related Plants
- Erythronium hendersonii
- Erythronium oregonum
- Erythronium revolutum
- Erythronium tuolumnense
References
- “Erythronium Californicum.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Erythronium_californicum.
- “Erythronium Californicum Margaret Mathew.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g880.
- “Erythronium Californicum Margaret Mathew.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/310065/erythronium-californicum-margaret-mathew/details.
