Calochortus
leichtlinii grows in open pine forest at an elevations of 4,000-12,000 feet, generally on gravelly
decomposed granite soils.
The flowers are white with charcoal and yellow markings. The
English translation of mariposa means butterfly. I have not seen the flowers attract the
butterflies but from a distance there could be a resemblance. Regardless
Calochrtus leichtlinii is
astoundingly beautiful. The Mariposa Lily's bloom in the late spring. Their native range
includes the Sierra Nevada Range and into the Mountains of Nevada. Sharp drainage
is required for the bulbs to survive. Though they will take
some summer water as long as they can dry out completely between irrigation cycles.
High resolution images
of Calochortus leichtlinii are available
