Overview
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats., also known as the wide-fruited mariposa lily, is a North American native perennial plant belonging to the family Liliaceae.
Origin
The wide-fruited mariposa lily is native to western North America, including the states of California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names
Aside from the wide-fruited mariposa lily, this plant is also commonly known as the white globe lily and the white mariposa lily.
Appearance
The wide-fruited mariposa lily grows from a bulb and typically reaches a height of 10 to 30 inches. It has three to six long, narrow leaves that emerge directly from the base of the plant. The flowers, which bloom from April through June, are large and showy with three broad, white petals that can be up to 3 inches long and spotted with a lavender-purple brown. The flowers are cup-shaped with a yellow or white center, and they sit atop a tall, slender stem. The fruit is a broad, oval-shaped capsule filled with numerous black, shiny seeds.
Uses
The bulbs of the wide-fruited mariposa lily were used by Native American tribes as a food source, sometimes roasted or boiled. The flowers have also been used for ornamental purposes and in the past were even commercialized as cut flowers. Nowadays, the plant is mainly appreciated for its beauty and as a garden plant.
Growth Conditions for Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats
Light: Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It typically grows in areas with high light intensity, receiving direct sunlight for 6-8 hours per day.
Temperature: The plant grows well in regions with moderate to warm temperatures. Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats thrives at temperatures ranging from 50°F to 85°F. In areas with extremely high temperatures, the plant may need to be protected from direct sunlight to avoid wilting.
Soil Requirements: Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats prefers loose, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can survive in slightly acidic or alkaline soil conditions. It is essential to ensure good soil aeration as wet or poorly aerated soil may cause root rot. To improve soil quality, organic matter such as compost can be added.
Water: The plant requires moderate amounts of water. Overwatering may lead to root rot or fungal infections. The soil must be allowed to dry slightly between watering. Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats may not survive in areas with excessive rainfall or in places with poor drainage.
Fertilizer: Fertilizer application should be done during the active growing period, typically in the spring and early summer. A balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 can be used to supply the necessary nutrients for the plant's growth and development. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this may lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower development.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated through several means, including division of bulbs, seeds, or offsets. Division can be done in the fall when the plant is dormant, while the seeds require warm and moist conditions to germinate. Offset propagation typically occurs in spring when the plant starts to grow a new growth point.
Cultivation Methods
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats., also known as the Wide-fruit Mariposa Lily, is a bulbous perennial plant that is native to grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands of California, Oregon, and Nevada. It can be propagated by planting bulbs during the fall, about 4 inches deep, and 4-6 inches apart in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight, but where the soil remains consistently moist.
You can also grow Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats. from seed. Sow seeds during the fall in a prepared bed or containers filled with well-draining soil. Press the seeds lightly into the soil and sprinkle a thin layer of soil over them.
Watering Needs
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats. prefers moist soil, but it must be well-draining and not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During periods of heavy rainfall, it may not need additional watering, but make sure to check the soil moisture level frequently to avoid over-saturation. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out, as this can cause the plant to go into dormancy.
Fertilization
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats. does not need a lot of fertilizer, but it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these can stimulate leaf growth at the expense of flower development.
Pruning
Avoid pruning Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats., as it needs its foliage to collect energy to produce blooms the following year. After the blooming season has ended, wait for the foliage to wither and turn yellow before gently removing it. The bulbs will remain dormant over the winter until the following growing season.
Propagation
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats. can be propagated through various methods. These include:
Seeds
Seeds can be collected from the plant's fruit capsules when they turn brown and begin to dry. The seeds should be sown immediately, as they do not have a long shelf life. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Ensure that the soil is kept moist, but not waterlogged. Seedlings should appear within 4-6 weeks.
Bulbs
The plant produces bulbs that can be divided to create new plants. This method is best performed in the fall after the foliage has died back. Dig up the bulbs, gently separate them, and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. The bulbs should be planted at a depth of around 4 inches. Ensure that the soil is kept moist until new growth appears.
Offsets
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats. also produces offsets, or small bulbs that grow off the main bulb. These can be gently separated from the main bulb and planted in the same way as bulb division. This method can be performed in the fall or the spring.
Disease and Pest Management for Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats.
Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats., commonly known as the "sagebrush mariposa lily," is a beautiful bulbous perennial plant that typically grows in the Great Basin region of the United States. However, like any other plant, it could be affected by various diseases and pests that can impact its growth, development, and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats., along with suggested ways to manage them.
Diseases
Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause gray-brown lesions on the stem, leaves, and flowers of the plant. To manage Botrytis blight, remove any infected plant material immediately, and reduce the humidity around the plant by increasing air circulation or using a fungicide.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by excessive watering, poor drainage, or fungal infections and can lead to yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage root rot, reduce water usage, and enhance drainage, avoid over-fertilizing, and remove any infected plant parts.
Pests
Thrips: These small insects can cause discoloration and deformation of the leaves and flowers. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any infected plant material.
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and can cause yellowing of the leaves and distortion of the growth. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and increase humidity around the plant.
Wireworms: These pests are slender, yellow-brown, and can cause damage to the bulbs and roots of the plant. To manage wireworms, use a pesticide specifically designed for this pest, rotate the location of the plant, and refrain from overwatering.
Managing diseases and pests is essential for the health and survival of Calochortus eurycarpus S. Wats. By following the suggestions mentioned above and ensuring proper cultural conditions, you can promote the growth and development of this beautiful plant.
