Mariposa Lily (Calochortus gunnisonii)

Family: Calochortaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Calochortus gunnisonii is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

tastes like a raw new potato. — Bulb - raw or cooked.; One report says that the raw bulb tastes like a raw new potato.; It has a crisp nut-like texture and a pleasant flavour when cooked.; The bulb can be dried and ground into a powder for making a sweet porridge, mush etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassy hillsides and open coniferous woods. Found in a variety of habitats from moist meadows and open woods to sandy and rocky hillsides and dry gulches between 1,200 and 3,300 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)