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Description
Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi is a perennial plant that belongs to the Liliaceae family. It is commonly known as “Kennedy’s Mariposa Lily” and is found in California, Oregon, and Nevada. The plant has three sepals and three petals that are usually white with purple or lavender markings. The leaves are grass-like and emerge from the base of the plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Calochortus |
| Species | Kennedyi |
| Variety | Kennedyi |
Appearance
The Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi plant grows up to 50 cm in height and has a bulbous base. The flowers are usually 5-7 cm in diameter and have three white petals with purple or lavender markings. The plant has a grass-like foliage emerging from the base, which is about the same height as the flowers. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a length of 5-15 cm.
Care Guide
Water: Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi requires moderate watering during its growing season, which is from spring to early summer. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a neutral pH. If the soil is not well-drained, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will affect its flowering.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi plant is susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also prone to root rot and fungal diseases. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
The Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi plant is native to California, Oregon, and Nevada. It grows in grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: When do the flowers of Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi bloom?
A: The flowers bloom from May to June.
Q: How deep should the bulb of the plant be planted?
A: The bulb should be planted about 10-15 cm deep.
Q: How often should Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a year during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Calochortus Kennedyi Var. Kennedyi?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
- Calochortus Amabilis
- Calochortus Clavatus
- Calochortus Invenustus
- Calochortus Maweanus
- Calochortus Tolmiei
References
- Calflora. (2021). Calochortus kennedyi ssp. kennedyi. Calflora.
- Native Plant Trust. (2021). Calochortus kennedyi ssp. kennedyi. Go Botany.
- USDA. (2021). Calochortus kennedyi ssp. kennedyi. Plants Database.
