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Description
Calochortus Coeruleus is a stunning plant native to California, commonly known as the “California mariposa lily.” It belongs to the Liliaceae family and is a perennial herb that grows from a bulbous root. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, producing a tall stem with several flowers that range in color from blue to purple. Each flower has six petals with a yellow or white center.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Calochortus |
| Species | Coeruleus |
Appearance
The Calochortus Coeruleus plant has a tall stem that can grow up to 60 centimeters high. The stem is green and covered with small hairs. The flowers are approximately 6 centimeters wide and have six petals. The petals are blue or purple, with a yellow or white center. The leaves are narrow and grow from the base of the stem. The plant’s bulbous root is brown and covered with a thin layer of skin.
Care Guide
Calochortus Coeruleus plants require moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips to help you grow a healthy plant:
Water: The plant needs regular watering during its growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization: The plant requires a balanced fertilizer once a month during its growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions but needs shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calochortus Coeruleus plants are susceptible to several pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
Pests: The plant can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Regular pest control measures, such as using insecticidal soap or neem oil, can help keep the pests at bay.
Diseases: The plant can be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Calochortus Coeruleus is native to California and can be found growing in meadows and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is adapted to dry and hot conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Calochortus Coeruleus plant?
A: The plant needs regular watering during its growing season. Water it when the soil is dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering.
Q: Can I grow Calochortus Coeruleus in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and adequate sunlight.
Q: How tall does Calochortus Coeruleus grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 60 centimeters tall.
Q: Can I grow Calochortus Coeruleus indoors?
A: The plant prefers full sun and is better suited for outdoor growing. However, it can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calochortus Coeruleus:
- Calochortus Amabilis
- Calochortus Catalinae
- Calochortus Gunnisonii
- Calochortus Tolmiei
References
- “Calochortus coeruleus.” Calflora. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1524.
- “Calochortus coeruleus.” Plant Lust. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.plantlust.com/plants/32159/calochortus-coeruleus/.
- “California mariposa lily.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/california-mariposa-lily.
