Calochortus venustusCalifornia has many species of Calochortus, commonly called Mariposa Lilies. The

Calochortus venustus

California has many species of Calochortus, commonly called Mariposa Lilies. These delightful bulbs do indeed belong to the Lily Family, unlike many other plants called “lilies” (such as Lily of the Nile or the Cala Lily). One of the most variable and beautiful species is Calochortus venustus, found in the mountains north of Los Angeles, and northward on both sides of the Central Valley. Our flowering plant is an unusual red form of the species, with the flowers turning more purplish as they age.

-Brian