Subalpine Mariposa Lily

This fine looking wildflower is native to and grows only in Oregon and Washington! The Subalpine Mariposa Lily (Calochortus subalpinus) is one of about 70 members of the Calochortus genus. They are spread out over much of the west, but nearly 28 are found only in California and one is the Utah state flower.

As members of the Lily (Lilacaea) family, these plants grow from bulbs and generally bloom in late Spring and early Summer. Many of the Mariposa lilies are rare or threatened by development and loss of habitat.

We spotted about two dozen of the Subalpine Mariposas on Ed's trail, on the way up to Silver Star Mountain in southwestern Washington. Elevation was probably about 3400 feet. (7/7/2013). In some of the guides it was called Cascade Mariposa Lily and Cat's Ear.