sagebrush mariposa lily

plant

Also known as: Calochortus macrocarpus

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Last updated

July 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The sagebrush mariposa lily (Calochortus macrocarpus) is a species of tuliplike perennial plant belonging to the genus Calochortus within the lily family (Liliaceae). These plants are native to western North America, particularly arid regions of the western United States.12

Mariposa lilies typically have stems ranging from 0.5 to 4 feet tall, growing from corms (underground stems) and featuring narrow leaves. Their showy flowers, often white, yellow, lilac, or bluish, are frequently marked in the center and have three large petals, each about 1 to 2 inches long, with a noticeable basal gland. The sagebrush mariposa lily specifically is known for its purple petals, which often display a green stripe, and its flowers can appear singly or in clusters of three. The name "mariposa" is likely derived from the Spanish word for butterfly.12

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mariposa lily
Major species
Sagebrush mariposa lily (C. macrocarpus) is one of the most common mariposa lilies of arid regions of the western U.S. The purple petals often have a green stripe, and the flowers are borne singly or in clusters of three.
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Sagebrush mariposa lily (C. macrocarpus) is one of the most common mariposa lilies of arid regions of the western U.S. The purple petals often have a green stripe, and the flowers are borne singly or in clusters of three.
Read More