Origin
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii, commonly known as Gunnison's mariposa lily, is a plant species native to western North America. This perennial plant can be found in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, where it grows in dry, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet.
Common Names
In addition to Gunnison's mariposa lily, this plant is also known by several other common names, including Gunnison's star-tulip, Gunnison's butterfly tulip, and Gunnison's kytocs.
Uses
Gunnison's mariposa lily has several traditional medicinal uses among indigenous peoples of the American Southwest. The root of the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and skin rashes. It has also been used as an analgesic for toothaches and headaches.
However, it is important to note that the plant can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, and as such, it should only be used under the guidance of trained professionals.
General Appearance
Gunnison's mariposa lily is a perennial herb that grows up to 24 inches tall. The plant produces multiple stems that emerge from a bulb-like corm, which can be up to 1 inch in diameter. The stem is typically unbranched and has a solitary, cup-shaped flower at the top.
The flowers are typically 2 to 3 inches wide and are usually white, although they can also be pink or lavender. The petals are usually covered with glandular hairs that give the plant a slightly sticky texture. The plant blooms from late April to early July.
The leaves of the plant are narrow and grass-like, typically measuring 4 to 12 inches long and 0.1 to 0.3 inches wide. They are usually basal and are arranged in a rosette around the base of the stem.
Light requirements
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii typically requires full sun exposure to partial shade, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of garden settings. However, in hot climates, it may benefit from afternoon shade. In the wild, the plant is often found growing among shrubs and rocky outcrops, which can provide varying degrees of shade.
Temperature requirements
This plant is native to the western United States and can tolerate temperatures that range from hot and dry to cold and snowy. It can withstand cold temperatures down to -40°F (-40°C) and is able to survive even when buried under snow for extended periods. However, it typically prefers moderate temperatures and will grow best in regions with a summer high between 70 and 80°F (21–27°C) and a winter low between 20 and 30°F (-6 to -1°C).
Soil requirements
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii grows best in well-draining, rocky or sandy soils with a pH between 7.0 and 8.5. It can tolerate some clay in the soil but prefers to grow in soils that are light and free. Soil fertility is not a significant concern, and the plant is able to thrive in nutrient-poor soils. However, it may benefit from a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, especially if the soil is poor or if the plant was recently transplanted.
Cultivation methods:
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii is a beautiful, delicate plant that requires a few specific growing conditions. This plant prefers well-draining soil that is nutrient-rich and slightly acidic. It thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions and requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight daily. Plant them in spring or early fall, as these are the ideal times for bulb planting.
Watering needs:
The watering needs for Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii can vary throughout the year, but they generally prefer to be kept moist rather than dry. During the growing season, which is from spring to summer, watering should be consistent. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. In contrast, during the winter dormancy period, the bulbs can be allowed to dry out completely.
Fertilization:
To promote healthy growth and flowering, Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii benefits from regular fertilization. Use a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. Fertilization should be done twice a year, once during the early spring growth period and again during the fall just before the winter dormancy period.
Pruning:
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii is a low maintenance plant that typically does not require pruning. However, any dead or yellowing leaves can be removed as needed. After the flowers have faded and the plant reaches the end of its growth cycle, it is best to allow the plant to die back naturally. Avoid cutting back or removing the foliage until it has turned brown and died completely, as this will allow the bulb to store up energy for the next growing season.
Propagation of Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii, commonly known as Gunnison's mariposa lily, is a herbaceous bulbous plant belonging to the family Liliaceae. The plant is native to the western United States, where it grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. Propagating this plant can be done either through seeds or bulb division.
Propagation through seeds
The most common method of propagating Calochortus gunnisonii is through seeds, which are readily available from online nurseries or specialty seed companies. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining, sandy soil mix in the fall, ideally after the first frost. It is important to ensure that the soil is kept consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes between 2-4 weeks.
Once the seedlings emerge, they should be kept in bright, indirect light and should be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions. Once the seedlings reach a size of 2-3 inches, they can be transplanted into their permanent outdoor location in the garden.
Propagation through bulb division
Calochortus gunnisonii can also be propagated through bulb division. This is typically done in late summer or early fall when the plant is dormant. To propagate through bulb division, gently dig up the bulbs and separate the offsets, making sure that each offset has a healthy root system. The offsets can then be planted in a well-draining soil mix at a depth equal to their size.
It is important to ensure that the newly planted offsets are kept moist, but not waterlogged, until they have established a strong root system. Once established, the new plants can be treated similarly to mature Calochortus gunnisonii plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii
Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii is a stunning plant that is native to North America. While it is generally a hardy plant, there are some diseases and pests that can affect it. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot: Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii is susceptible to root rot, which is caused by a fungal infection. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. In severe cases, you may need to remove infected plants and replace them with disease-resistant varieties.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove all infected parts of the plant and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded. You may also need to use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Virus Infection: Virus infections are difficult to manage as there is no cure. Prevention is key, so ensure that you purchase plants from reputable nurseries and do not share tools or equipment with other growers. Infected plants must be removed to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pests
Thrips: These tiny insects can cause significant damage to Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii by feeding on the foliage of the plant. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs to control the population of thrips.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are another pest that can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or a miticide. You can also introduce natural predators such as predatory mites to control the population of spider mites.
Squirrels and Gophers: These rodents can be a significant problem as they can dig up bulbs and feed on the roots of the plant. To manage this pest, use chicken wire to create a barrier around the planting area. You can also use repellents or humane trapping to remove the rodents.
By being vigilant and taking steps to manage diseases and pests, you can keep your Calochortus gunnisonii S. Wats. var. gunnisonii healthy and thriving.
