Elegant mariposa lily (Calochortus elegans)

Also known as: Cat's ear

In the inflorescence, there are 1 to 7 upright, bell-shaped flowers. Each flower features three sepals and three petals, which have notably hairy interiors and edges. The petals are greenish-white, accented with a purple crescent near a smooth area at the base. The resulting fruit is a winged capsule, approximately 2 centimeters in length.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Elegant mariposa lily

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

8 cm to 15 cm

Spread

N/A

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-5 cm

Flower Color

White to light pink with yellow and dark purple markings

Images of Elegant mariposa lily

Quickly Identify Elegant mariposa lily

To identify Calochortus elegans, look for its distinctive three-petaled flowers which are typically white or light pink, marked with yellow and dark purple at the base. The leaves are narrow and grass-like, and the plant typically grows up to 30 centimeters tall.

Scientific Classification of Elegant mariposa lily

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Liliales

Family

Lily

Genus

Mariposas

Species

Elegant mariposa lily

Planting and Growing of Elegant mariposa lily

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Elegant mariposa lily?

For Calochortus elegans, it is essential to provide moderate watering. Generally, 200 milliliters per session should be sufficient to keep the soil slightly moist but not saturated. The key is to allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings, ensuring the roots do not sit in water which could lead to root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Elegant mariposa lily? ›

What should I do if my Elegant mariposa lily is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Elegant mariposa lily? ›

How to save an overwatered Elegant mariposa lily? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Elegant mariposa lily?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours daily

Calochortus elegans benefits from partial sun exposure, which helps to balance photosynthesis and transpiration efficiently. This optimal range supports vibrant, prolific flowers and maintains foliage health, contributing to the plant's overall vigor.

Optimal Lighting Environment ›

Solution to Obtain Ideal Light ›

Benefits of Ideal Light Conditions ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Elegant mariposa lily?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth and blooming, Calochortus elegans thrives in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This temperature range mimics the natural conditions it experiences in its native habitat, allowing it to maintain healthy tissue development and produce vibrant flowers. By maintaining this temperature range, the plant can effectively utilize nutrients and resist stressors.

What Soil is Best for Elegant mariposa lily?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Calochortus elegans thrives best in nutrient-rich soils which enhance its vibrant blooms and overall health. The presence of organic matter helps retain moisture and provides essential nutrients, fostering robust growth. Well-draining soil is crucial for Calochortus elegans to prevent root rot caused by waterlogged conditions. This type of substrate ensures that excess water quickly leaves the root zone, maintaining an optimal hydration balance. While well-draining, the soil should also retain enough moisture to sustain the plant during dry periods. This balance prevents dehydration while avoiding the risks associated with overly soggy soil conditions.

How to Fertilize Elegant mariposa lily?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When applying fertilizers to Calochortus elegans, use half the recommended rate for general flowering plants. This ensures that you provide enough nutrients without overwhelming the sensitive root system. A typical amount would be using a diluted liquid fertilizer with a NPK ratio of approximately 10-10-10, ensuring the total application doesn’t exceed 1 teaspoon per gallon of water.

How to Prune Elegant mariposa lily?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Once the blooming cycle has completed, remove spent flowers to prevent seed production and encourage the plant to direct its energy towards bulb development. Carefully snip off the flower stalks at the base without harming the emerging leaves. After the flowering period, wait for the leaves to turn yellow and wither naturally before trimming. This process allows the plant to photosynthesize and store nutrients in the bulb for the next season's growth. Trim the dead foliage close to the ground, ensuring the base of the plant remains healthy. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Elegant mariposa lily plant?

Propagate Time: Spring

Start by filling the seed tray with a seed-starting mix. Sow the Calochortus elegans seeds thinly on the surface, then lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil mix. This facilitates light exposure which some seeds require for germination.

Use a fine spray watering can to moisten the seeds. Water the tray until the seed mix is damp but not soggy. Consistent moisture is critical but over-watering can lead to seed rot.

Place the seed tray in a location with bright, indirect light and a consistent temperature around 15-20°C (59-68°F). This environment encourages germination which typically takes a few weeks.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Elegant mariposa lily plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Calochortus elegans requires repotting when you notice its roots starting to circle around the pot or when the plant seems to be outgrowing its current home. Another sign is when the soil seems compacted and drains poorly despite watering adjustments. These signs usually become noticeable in early spring or autumn.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent water stagnation, which can lead to root rot. A ceramic or terracotta pot is ideal as it regulates soil moisture better, allowing the plant roots to breathe and flourish effectively.

Opt for a well-draining sandy mix that mimics its natural habitat. This soil type reduces the risk of over-watering by allowing excess moisture to drain, thus encouraging healthy root growth and preventing any fungal infections or root rot issues.