Click on the images below to see larger versions.
Scientific Name | Calochortus gunnisonii | USDA PLANTS Symbol | CAGU |
Common Name | Mariposa Lily | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 42849 |
Family | Liliaceae (Lily) | SEINet Reference |
Click Here |
Description |
Life zones and habitat: Foothills to subalpine (4700 to 11000 ft). Meadows, open woods, hillsides. Plant: Erect, perennial, unbranched slender stem to 20 inches tall. Leaves: Narrow, linear basal leaves to 10 inches long withering early; a few shorter, alternate stem leaves. Inflorescence: Cup-shaped to 2 inches across with 3 rounded white to purplish petals with dark band surrounding center; 3 translucent, whitish or pale green sepals, lance-shaped with pointed tips. Bloom Period: May to July. References: "Guide to Colorado Wildflowers" by G.K. Guennel, "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield and SEINet. |
BONAP Distribution Map![]() |
Colorado Status: Native |
Scientific Name | Calochortus nuttallii | USDA PLANTS Symbol | CANU3 |
Common Name | Sego Lily | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 42863 |
Family | Liliaceae (Lily) | SEINet Reference |
Click Here |
Description |
Life zones and habitat: Foothills and high desert to montane (4700 to 9200 ft); dry slopes, flats, shale or clay hills. Plant: Erect, perennial, unbranched slender stem 6 to 18 inches tall. Leaves: Narrow, linear basal leaves 4 to 8 inches long withering early; a few shorter, alternate stem leaves. Inflorescence: Large cup-shaped flowers 2 to 3 inches across with 3 rounded white, lilac, lavender-blue or pink petals with yellow at base and reddish brown or purple band or blotch; yellowish or pinkish, oblong anthers; 3 lanceolate sepals with pointed tips; 2-3 leafy bracts below. Bloom Period: May to July. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Southwest Desert Flora and SEINet. |
BONAP Distribution Map![]() |
Colorado Status: Native |