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Description
Calochortus Raichei, also known as the Raiche’s Mariposa Lily, is a stunning perennial wildflower that belongs to the Liliaceae family. This plant is native to the southern Sierra Nevada mountains in California, United States.The plant typically grows up to 12 inches tall and produces a single, showy flower that ranges in color from pale white to lavender pink. The flower has three large petals and three smaller sepals that are covered in fine hairs. The petals are adorned with purple spots and have a distinctive yellow or white hairy patch at the base. The flower blooms in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Calochortus |
| Species | Calochortus Raichei |
Appearance
Calochortus Raichei has a slender stem that arises from a bulb. The leaves are basal, meaning they grow directly from the base of the stem, and are grass-like in appearance. The leaves are typically between 8-12 inches long and 1/4 inch wide.The flower of Calochortus Raichei is the most striking feature of the plant. The flower is large, typically measuring between 2-3 inches across, and has three petals and three sepals. The petals are generally white or pinkish-lavender in color and have a distinctive yellow or white hairy patch at the base. The petals are also adorned with dark purple spots.
Care Guide
Calochortus Raichei is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure it thrives.Water: This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Calochortus Raichei does not require fertilization. If you do choose to fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.Sunlight: Calochortus Raichei prefers full sun to light shade. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: Calochortus Raichei is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calochortus Raichei is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained. Additionally, gophers and other rodents may eat the bulbs.
Habitat
Calochortus Raichei is native to the southern Sierra Nevada mountains in California, United States. It grows in open, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 3,000-9,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calochortus Raichei be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has adequate drainage holes.Q: How often should I water Calochortus Raichei?
A: Water this plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Q: Does Calochortus Raichei require full sun?
A: This plant prefers full sun to light shade. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Q: What is the bloom time for Calochortus Raichei?
A: The flower of Calochortus Raichei blooms in late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
Other members of the Calochortus genus include:
- Calochortus Nuttallii
- Calochortus Tolmiei
- Calochortus Maweanus
- Calochortus Albus
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/calochortus_raichei.shtml
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=1352
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CARA12
