Fawn Lily (Erythronium californicum)

Family: Liliaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Erythronium californicum is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland).

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The following use has been noted for the closely related E. origonum and probably also applies to this species, which has a corm 35 - 50mm long:- Bulb - raw, cooked or dried for later use. — The following use has been noted for the closely related E.; origonum and probably also applies to this species, which has a corm 35 - 50mm long:- Bulb - raw, cooked or dried for later use.

Habitat & North American Range

Openings on brushy slopes and in woods, to 1000 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)