Mariposa Lily
calochortus gunnisonii
Also known as: ["Gunnison's Mariposa Lily","Mariposa Tulip"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its showy, tulip-like flowers with three petal-like tepals.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Calochortus |
| Botanical Name: | Calochortus gunnisonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering in late spring or early summer; occasional removal of dead or damaged foliage as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; primarily removing flower stalks and any dead or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) in spring and early summer; partial shade during the hottest part of summer to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend heavy soils with sand or grit; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates cold but requires a period of dormancy in winter.
Protect from frost in winter; provide shade in extreme summer heat; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of bulbs can also be done after dormancy.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly in a seed tray.
- Keep consistently moist.
- Transplant seedlings when they have several true leaves.
- Divide bulbs carefully, ensuring each division has roots and a growth point.
Best Time: Spring, after the last frost, for seeds; late summer or early fall for bulb division.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F or 15–21°C), humid environment with bright indirect light; protect from direct sun and strong winds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or bulb propagation mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can be used for bulb cuttings if desired.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 years to germinate and establish; bulb division can produce new plants in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, well-draining mix, rooting hormone (optional), sharp knife or pruners for division.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for natural cold stratification; divide bulbs only when necessary to avoid stress; maintain consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks back to the base of the plant; trim away dead or yellowing leaves carefully to avoid damaging the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development and prevent self-seeding if desired.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; trim dead foliage; clean tools between cuts; avoid cutting into the bulb itself.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after the plant has finished flowering and before dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) if repotting; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Carefully lift the bulb, gently remove old soil, divide if necessary, and replant in fresh, well-draining soil with the top of the bulb slightly above soil level.
Suggestions
Not typically required for bulbs planted in the ground; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years if they become crowded.
Checklist
Choose a well-draining pot; use fresh soil mix; handle bulbs gently; ensure proper planting depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in late summer and fall; avoid watering in winter when dormant.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or failure to flower in insufficient warmth; leaf drop or root rot in cold, wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged cold and wet soil may lead to fungal infections or rot.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging; provide a layer of mulch for insulation; protect from frost if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, bud drop, or reduced flowering; heat stress may lead to dehydration and wilting.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency but avoid waterlogging; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid late-season fertilization; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize once in early spring and once after flowering; avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to allow for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalochortus gunnisonii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCalochortus gunnisonii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCalochortus gunnisonii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Calochortus gunnisonii?
A: Propagation is typically done by seed sowing in fall or by dividing bulbs in late summer.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with full sun exposure.
Q: Does this plant require special care during winter?
A: It is generally cold hardy but benefits from a layer of mulch to protect the bulb from extreme temperatures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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