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Description
Erythronium citrinum, also known as the yellow avalanche lily, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Liliaceae. It is native to Western North America, particularly in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range. The plant has a bulb that produces one to three basal leaves and a single flowering stem that can grow up to 15 inches tall. The flowers are yellow and star-shaped with six petals and a yellow central trumpet. The plant blooms in early spring, usually in April or May, and is known for its striking beauty.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Erythronium |
Appearance
The yellow avalanche lily has a distinctive appearance that makes it easy to identify. The plant has one to three basal leaves that are elliptical in shape, with a smooth texture and a waxy surface. The leaves are about 4 to 8 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. The flowering stem is slender and can grow up to 15 inches tall. The stem has a few small bracts and produces one to three yellow flowers that are star-shaped with six petals and a yellow central trumpet. The flowers are about 1 to 2 inches wide and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Erythronium citrinum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in the fall when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Soil: The plant prefers rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Add organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, to improve the soil quality.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, the plant may require some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Erythronium citrinum is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erythronium citrinum is generally free from serious pest and disease problems. However, the plant may be susceptible to the following:
Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug baits or copper bands to prevent them from reaching the plant.
Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Erythronium citrinum is native to Western North America, where it grows in moist meadows, open woods, and along stream banks. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It is commonly found in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range, but can also be found in other parts of the West Coast, including Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Erythronium citrinum bloom?
A: The plant blooms in early spring, usually in April or May.
Q: Does Erythronium citrinum require a lot of water?
A: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Is Erythronium citrinum hardy?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to Erythronium citrinum?
A: Slugs and snails can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant, while overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Erythronium citrinum:
- Erythronium californicum
- Erythronium hendersonii
- Erythronium oregonum
- Erythronium revolutum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/erythronium_citrinum.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/erythronium-citrinum-yellow-avalanche-lily
- https://www.thespruce.com/yellow-avalanche-lily-plant-profile-4843603
