Coast Range Mariposa Lily

(Calochortus vestae)

Coast Range Mariposa Lily (Calochortus vestae)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Calochortus vestae, commonly known as Coast Range Mariposa Lily, is a perennial herb native to the North Coast Ranges of California, including Sonoma, Lake, and Mendocino Counties, with additional populations in Shasta County and the Sierra Nevada foothills. It thrives in open woodlands, grassy slopes, and chaparral environments, often on serpentine soils. This species typically produces a branching stem between 12-20 inches tall and is noted for its loose cluster of 1 to 6 erect, bell-shaped flowers. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, have petals up to 2 inches long, usually white to purplish with a central area of pale yellow and a darker blotch, making them quite showy.

The Coast Range Mariposa Lily is valued for its ornamental flowers and is used in wildflower gardens, native plant landscapes, and as a specimen plant in cultivation. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. Gardeners should provide it with well-draining soil, preferably clay, and full sun to part shade conditions. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if conditions are too moist. There are no widely available cultivars, but its natural beauty makes it a desirable addition to gardens. Care should be taken to avoid overwatering, and it should be planted in areas that mimic its native habitat to prevent potential problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, Red, White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, grassy slopes, and chaparral environments, often on serpentine soils in the North Coast Ranges of California

Other Names

Common Names: Vesta Butterfly Lily

Scientific Names: , Calochortus vestae, Calochortus luteus var. oculatus, Calochortus luteus var. vestae, Calochortus oculatus, Calochortus venustus var. brachysepalus, Calochortus venustus var. vesta, Calochortus venustus var. vestae, Calochortus vesta,

GBIF Accepted Name: