Species Sagebrush Mariposa Lily
light-purple flowers with dark-yellow center, pink stamens and green leaves

Sagebrush Mariposa Lily

Calochortus macrocarpus

The Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) is a spring-blooming mariposa lily. It produces one to several showy flowers with three broad white petals, each having one to several yellow spots near its base. The leaves are grass-like with a grey-green hue and are divided into several leaflets. It thrives in dry, open areas and is typically found in conifer forests in the western United States, reaching heights of 6-13 inches (15-33 cm). This lily is highly sought after by gardeners for its beautiful blooms and adaptability to a variety of soils.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Offsets,Bulbils,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Sagebrush Mariposa Lily should be watered once or twice a week depending on the climate and soil conditions. To ensure healthy and vibrant plants it is best to water early in the morning and always water until a few inches deep into the soil. In areas with cold winters, it is best to deeply water the plants 1-2 times a month, and avoid watering them when temperatures are below freezing. In warmer areas, more frequent watering may be necessary during the hottest months, and it is best to avoid over-watering plants as this may cause root rot.

sunlight

Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) thrive in light that is either full sun or partial shade. In full sun locations, the plant should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Partial shade locations should receive 4-6 hours of direct sunlight and a few hours of dappled or indirect sunlight. The total amount of sunlight should not exceed 8-10 hours daily. During midday hours, when the sun is strongest, it is best to provide some protection or filtered light to prevent any damage to the plant.

pruning

The Sagebrush Mariposa Lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) takes well to light pruning throughout its growing season. Pruning should ideally take place when the plant has finished blooming, in late summer or early autumn. This will promote a bushier, healthier plant. Deadheading or removing spent flower petals is recommended to promote continued blooming. If pruning is needed to reduce the plant's size, it can be done in late spring or at any time when the plant is actively growing. Be sure to only prune away no more than 1/3 of the total plant size in 1 session, and prune away damaged or dead foliage and stems.