Butterfly mariposa lily (Calochortus venustus, Trans. Hort. Soc. London, ser. 2, 1: 412 (1834 publ. 1835))

Family: Liliaceae

Author: Douglas ex Benth.

Bibliography: Trans. Hort. Soc. London, ser. 2, 1: 412 (1834 publ. 1835)

Year: 1835

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Calochortus

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: California

Description

The Butterfly Mariposa Lily, scientifically known as Calochortus venustus, presents a dazzling contribution to the diverse floral landscapes of California. A proud member of the Liliaceae family, this enchanting plant has been well-documented since its formal description in 1834, as featured in the Transactions of the Horticultural Society of London.

Calochortus venustus thrives in the unique and varied climates of its native Californian habitat. It is most often spotted in grasslands and open woodlands, flourishing particularly in areas that provide the well-drained soils and ample sunlight it prefers.

The plant distinguishes itself through its remarkable aesthetic appeal. The flowers of the Butterfly Mariposa Lily are particularly celebrated for their vibrant and intricate coloring. The petals, often adorned with striking patterns and hues that range from soft pastels to bold, bright shades, can include spots or markings reminiscent of butterfly wings — a likely inspiration for its common name. These eye-catching blooms not only enchant onlookers but also play a role in attracting pollinators, ensuring the continuity of the species.

Beyond its beauty, Calochortus venustus has adapted well to the ecological conditions of the region. These adaptations have made it a resilient contender in its native ecosystem, contributing both to the biodiversity and the visual beauty of California’s natural vistas.

The Butterfly Mariposa Lily holds a special place not only in botanical records but also in the hearts of nature enthusiasts and horticulturists who seek to preserve and celebrate the rich plant heritage of California. The detailed description by Douglas ex Benth. in the horticultural annals captures the historical interest in this remarkable species, enhancing our understanding and appreciation of its unique qualities.

In cultivating an appreciation for Calochortus venustus, we connect with a piece of California’s natural heritage, celebrating a plant that encapsulates both delicate beauty and ecological resilience.

Common Names

Eng: butterfly mariposa lily
En: Butterfly mariposa lily
De: Schmetterlings-Mormonentulpe

Synonyms

• Calochortus venustus var. eldorado (Purdy)
• Calochortus venustus var. purpurascens (S.Watson)
• Calochortus venustus var. roseus (Reuthe)
• Calochortus venustus var. sulphureus (Purdy)
• Calochortus venustus var. caroli (Cockerell)
• Mariposa venusta ((Douglas ex Benth.) Hoover)
• Calochortus venustus var. oculatus (Tubergen)
• Calochortus venustus var. superbus (L.H.Bailey & E.Z.Bailey)
• Calochortus venustus var. pictus ((Wallace) Purdy & L.H.Bailey)
• Calochortus venustus pictus (Wallace)
• Calochortus venustus var. purpureus (Baker)
• Calochortus venustus var. sanguineus (Purdy & L.H.Bailey)

Distribution

• California (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 1, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 1, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 1, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 7, 2000 by EOL − Jo-Ann Ordano (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 3, 2013 by EOL − NickyTrow (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Jan 21, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Other

Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 16, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2750797)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:532481-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Calochortus venustus Douglas ex Benth.)

Specifications

Growth