Erythronium multiscapideum aka Sierra Foothills Fawn Lily

Erythronium multiscapideum, the Sierra fawn lily, belongs to the lily family. This bulbous perennial comes from northern and central California. It grows in a temperate climate. Wild plants grow on slopes in pine forest and foothill woodland. These sites range from sea level to about 1,800 feet [550 metres]. The plant forms clumps and loses its leaves in summer.

The RHS describes plants standing 0.5–1.1 feet [0.15–0.35 metres] tall. Its broader garden size range reaches 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Clumps can also spread to 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. The dark green leaves have faint brown marks. Their shape is elliptic, and they measure 0.11–0.33 feet [0.035–0.10 metres] long. The flower stem branches at ground level or just beneath it.

Spring brings cream-white flowers from buds tinged with red. Each bloom measures about 0.13–0.20 feet [0.04–0.06 metres] across. White anthers sit around a yellow or yellow-green centre. The leaves die back in summer, leaving a gap in the planting. Its spring flowers suit woodland beds and shaded garden edges. It also fits informal borders and spaces beneath roses or shrubs.

Give this plant partial shade or light shade beneath trees. Choose a sheltered spot with rich soil and good drainage. The soil should hold moisture without becoming waterlogged. Chalk, clay, loam and sand can all suit it. It also accepts acid, neutral and alkaline soil. Plant bulbs in autumn, at least 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] deep. Add leafmould as mulch each year. Keep stored bulbs slightly damp, including before planting. The RHS rates its hardiness H4 for UK conditions.

Divide settled clumps after flowering, then replant them straight away. Do not let the bulbs dry out during this work. The plant needs no pruning and usually has few disease problems. Slugs may attack it, while grey mould and rust can occur. The RHS warns that people and pets must not eat the bulbs. Wear gloves and suitable protection when handling them. Species-specific evidence does not establish a safe food use. PFAF lists no known medicinal or other practical uses.