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What is a Weakstem Mariposa aka Sego Lily (Calochortus flexuosus)

What is a Weakstem Mariposa

Below is a transcription of the above sign found at the Valley of Fire Visitor Center.

Weakstem Mariposa or Straggling Mariposa or Sego Lily – Calochortus flexuosus

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Clade: Tracheophytes
  • Clade: Angiosperms
  • Clade: Monocots
  • Order: Liliales
  • Family: Liliaceae
  • Genus: Calochortus
  • Species: C. flexuosus

What is a Weakstem Mariposa

COMMUNITY

Creosote Bush Scrub

BLOOMS

April-May

HABITAT

Weaksteam climbs sturdier shrubs or straggles across sand dunes and rocky slopes.

ELEVATION

2400 to 4000 ft (820 to 1300 m)

TYPE OF SOIL

Limestone preferred

SOURCE OF WATER

Surface

HEIGHT

Stem may be 24 to 36 inches (60 to 90 cm) but unless supported by a shrub, flower appears just a few inches (2 cm) above the ground.

POLLINATION

Insects, wind

ADAPTATION

Bulb stores energy for use following season.

Plant conserves energy by producing only weak steam and small leaves.

COMMENTS

Like other desert lilies, the bulb is edible and was collected by Indians.

Small animals also dig them for food.

What is a Weakstem Mariposa