Calochortus nuttallii 

(Sego Lily)

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Calochortus nuttallii, Kokopelli Trail, Mesa Co. 6022

Scientific Name Calochortus nuttallii USDA PLANTS Symbol CANU3
Common Name Sego Lily ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 42863
Family Liliaceae (Lily) SEINet
Reference
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Description Life zones and habitat: Foothills and high desert to montane (4700 to 9200 ft); dry slopes, flats, shale or clay hills.
Plant: Erect, perennial, unbranched slender stem 6 to 18 inches tall.
Leaves: Narrow, linear basal leaves 4 to 8 inches long withering early; a few shorter, alternate stem leaves.
Inflorescence: Large cup-shaped flowers 2 to 3 inches across with 3 rounded white, lilac, lavender-blue or pink petals with yellow at base and reddish brown or purple band or blotch; yellowish or pinkish, oblong anthers; 3 lanceolate sepals with pointed tips; 2-3 leafy bracts below.
Bloom Period: May to July.
References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Southwest Desert Flora and SEINet.
BONAP Distribution Map

Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Native

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains