Sierra Fawn Lily

(Erythronium multiscapideum)

Sierra Fawn Lily (Erythronium multiscapideum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Erythronium multiscapideum, commonly known as Sierra fawn lily, is a perennial herb endemic to California, specifically found in moist meadows, open woodlands, and forest clearings within the foothills of the southern Cascade Range and the Sierra Nevada from Shasta County to Amador County, as well as isolated populations in Mariposa County. It typically grows from a bulb 0.8-2 inches long and features two oval-shaped, mottled leaves up to 6 inches long. The plant reaches a modest height of 4-8 inches and produces 1-4 nodding white flowers with bright yellow bases and brownish-red exteriors on the back of the petals, each bloom appearing in early spring. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees.

Sierra fawn lily is valued for its delicate, ornamental flowers and its ability to naturalize in suitable conditions. It is often used in woodland gardens, rock gardens, and native plant landscapes. This species prefers partial shade and requires moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to bulb rot. There are no major disease issues, but slugs and snails can sometimes be problematic. Erythronium multiscapideum is not known for being invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for most gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
  • Height: 0.25-0.6 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, open woodlands, and forest clearings within the foothills of the southern Cascade Range and the Sierra Nevada

Other Names

Common Names: Many-Stemmed Fawn Lily, Kotolo, Sierra Foothills Fawn-Lily

Scientific Names: , Erythronium multiscapideum, Erythronium grandiflorum var. multiscapideum, Erythronium hartwegii, Erythronium multiscapoideum, Fritillaria multiscapidea, Fritillaria multiscapoidea,

GBIF Accepted Name: