Calochortus

Sunset

Calochortus

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Zones 1-9, 14-24

Full, Partial

Moderate

Liliaceae
Bulbs and bulblike plants, Perennials

Western natives, most common in California. Among the more challenging bulbs for the garden, as they demand the long, warm, dry summers of their native habitats. Sparse, grassy foliage is common to all types, but there are three distinct flower forms. Globe tulips or fairy lanterns have nodding flowers, the petals turning inward to form a globe. Star tulips have upward-facing, cup-shaped flowers, with petal tips often rolled outward; those with long, straight hairs on th inner flower parts are called "cat's ears" or "pussy ears." Mariposa lilies are generally the tallest, with striking cup- or bowl-shaped blossoms. Flower colors include yellow, purple, lavender, red, pink, and white. Bloom time for most is spring or early summer.

Calochortus nuttallii

Native from North Dakota and Montana south to New Mexico and Arizona, this is the state flower of Utah. Grows 1 1/2 ft. tall. Upright, 3-petaled, 3-in. flowers are white tinged with lilac, yellow at base, marked with red or purple. Foliage is grassy.