Family: Liliaceae
Author: Hook. & Arn.
Bibliography: Bot. Beechey Voy.: 398 (1840)
Year: 1840
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Calochortus
Vegetable: False
Observations: Washington (King Co.) to WC. California
Description
The plant commonly known as Pussy-ears, scientifically named Calochortus tolmiei, is a fascinating and delicate member of the Liliaceae family. First chronicled in “Bot. Beechey Voy.: 398” in the year 1840 by botanists Hooker and Arnott, this plant has intrigued botanists and plant enthusiasts for centuries.
Pussy-ears are distinctive for their charming appearance and characteristic features. These perennial herbs are typically found in the regions stretching from Washington’s King County down to west-central California. This area’s climate and ecological conditions provide an ideal habitat for this species, enabling it to thrive in the wild.
The flowers of Calochortus tolmiei are particularly notable for their unique, striking appearance, which bears a resemblance to the soft, furry ears of a kitten — an attribute that fittingly earned them their common name. The petals of these flowers often exhibit a delicate blend of colors and a textured, hairy surface, contributing to their enchanting visual appeal.
In the local ecology, Pussy-ears play a significant role. They contribute to the biodiversity of their native regions and serve as an essential part of the habitat, providing various ecological benefits. These plants can be seen flowering in meadows, grassy slopes, and woodland areas, where they add a splash of beauty to the natural landscape.
In summary, Calochortus tolmiei, or Pussy-ears, is a captivating plant species belonging to the Liliaceae family, with a historical botanical record dating back to the 19th century. Its presence from Washington to west-central California marks it as a cherished component of these environments, celebrated for its unique floral charm and ecological importance.
Common Names
Eng: tolmie star-tulip, pussy-ears
En: Pussy-ears, Pussy Ears, Tolmie star-tulip, Tolmie’s mariposa lily, Tolmie’s mariposa tulip
Synonyms
- Calochortus maweanus var. major (Purdy)
- Calochortus elegans var. lobbii (Baker)
- Calochortus maweanus var. roseus (Purdy)
- Calochortus elegans (Baker)
- Calochortus galei (Peck)
- Calochortus purdyi (Mast.)
- Calochortus glaucus (Regel)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jan 5, 2021 by Ans Kuin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 21, 2020 by Nick (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 17, 2022 by Barbara Mack (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 8, 2022 by Hel Zel (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 11, 2020 by Hailey Malone (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Walter Siegmund (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:532475-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2750726)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Calochortus tolmiei Hook. & Arn.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb