Leucocrinum montanum aka Common Starlily

Leucocrinum montanum is a small perennial in the asparagus family. Its common names include sand lily, mountain lily, and star lily. It comes from the western United States and northern New Mexico. Its range reaches east to Nebraska and the Dakotas. It grows in deserts and open mountain woods. Wild sites include sandy ground, rocky places, and sagebrush country. It also grows in heavier soils that do not stay waterlogged.

This plant forms low clumps or small mounds. Its reported mature height is about 0.33 feet [0.10 metres]. Narrow green leaves grow in tufts with no visible stems. They measure about 0.33–0.67 feet [0.10–0.20 metres] long. Each leaf has a pale edge and a sheathed base. The leaves are simple and lack hairs. Growth is fast during the active season. The plant survives below ground when heat ends its growth. Its leaves die back during the hot desert summer. New growth returns when conditions suit the plant again.

White, scented flowers open in May and June. Their star shape stands out among the grass-like leaves. Flowers sit near the soil surface rather than on tall stems. The stalk that bears them extends below ground. The flowers form an umbel and measure one to three inches across. Seed capsules also develop below ground. Pollen differs between some parts of the native range. Rocky Mountain and some Nevada plants release separate pollen grains. Plants in western Nevada and along the coast release four-grain groups.

In gardens, sand lily needs full sun and good drainage. It does best in moist, sandy, alkaline soil. Suitable ground holds some moisture but lets excess water drain. It can also grow in loam or clay with good drainage. Despite its spring moisture needs, it can withstand drought. Sources place it in USDA zones 5–9. One source reports cold tolerance to about −20°C. Its low form and spring flowers suit drought-tolerant beds. Seed is the recommended way to raise new plants.

NC State reports no known diseases or insect pests. Plants For A Future does not flag it as weedy. That source lists the root as edible, without preparation details. It also records crushed roots used on sores and swellings. This is a record of use, not proof of benefit. ASPCA lists the species as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards.