Calochortus luteus, commonly known as the Yellow Mariposa Lily, is a perennial herb that is endemic to California. It thrives in various habitats including coastal prairies, grasslands, and open forest floors, particularly in areas from northern Santa Barbara County to the Sierra Nevada foothills. This species is recognized for its bright, deep yellow cup-shaped flowers, which are 1-2 inches across and often feature red-brown blotches on the inside. The flowering season typically occurs in late spring to early summer, and the flowers are quite showy, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The Yellow Mariposa Lily is valued in cultivation for its striking flowers and its ability to adapt to a range of garden settings. It is often used in landscaping and restoration projects, where it adds a splash of color and contributes to local biodiversity. Gardeners appreciate its drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It prefers full sun to light shade and requires well-drained soils. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to bulb rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is available from native plant nurseries for ornamental use, and while it does not have aggressive roots, it should be planted with care to avoid disturbing the bulbs.CC BY-SA 4.0