San Luis Obispo Mariposa Lily

Calochortus simulans

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Liliaceae
Genus:
Calochortus
Species:
Calochortus simulans
USDA Symbol:
CASI7

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Geophyte
Height:
40 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
white, pink, purple

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
Native to dry, open hillsides and grasslands

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 4-8 weeks to break dormancy.