Calochortus macrocarpus aka Sagebrush Mariposa Lily

Calochortus macrocarpus is a bulbous perennial in the lily family. Its common names include sagebrush mariposa lily and Nez Perce mariposa lily. It comes from western Canada and the western United States. Its range includes southern British Columbia, Idaho, western Montana, Oregon, and Washington. It also reaches northeastern California and northern Nevada. It grows on dry hills, often in loose soil. Other habitats include sagebrush scrub and open conifer woods. Wild plants occur at elevations reaching 6,562 feet [2,000 metres].

This plant grows to about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] tall. It flowers from April to June, according to Plants For A Future. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, though PFAF recommends hand pollination for seed production in cultivation. The bulbs often divide after the plant flowers. These small new bulbs take about two years to reach flowering size.

Give it full sun and deep, fertile soil that drains freely. Sandy soil suits it, and PFAF also lists loam as suitable. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. Soil may be dry or moist during growth. Winter wet poses a greater problem than cold. PFAF lists USDA zones 3–7 but calls British cultivation difficult. A bulb frame offers a way to keep winter rain off. A spot beside a south-facing wall is another option worth trying.

Growers can lift the bulbs when the leaves die in summer. Store them somewhere cool and dry, then replant in spring. Seed needs a growing mix that drains very freely. Sow it when ripe or in early spring in a cold frame. Germination can take one to six months at 59°F. Leave seedlings undisturbed for their first two years. Their first dormant spell is hard to manage. Too much moisture can cause rot, while too little can dry them out.

PFAF records the bulbs as food, either raw or cooked. They can be peeled, boiled, or baked. The raw flower buds have a sweet taste. The same source records mashed bulbs as a traditional poultice for poison ivy rash. This records a past use, not proof that it works. PFAF lists no known hazards, but this does not establish safety for pets. It reports no weed potential.