About Calochortus clavatus S.Watson
Calochortus clavatus, a species of lily, produces tall stems that can reach up to 1 metre (3.3 ft) in height, and bears only basal leaves. A single lily flower forms at the top of the stem. Its sepals can grow up to 4 centimeters long, while its petals reach up to 5 centimeters long. The petals are yellow, with a darker line or series of often red bands near their base. The inner cup of the flower is covered in hairs that have clubbed ends. The anthers of this species are often deep purple. Its capsule fruit can reach up to 9 centimeters long. Several varieties of Calochortus clavatus are recognized: Calochortus clavatus var. avius, which is found in the northwestern Sierra Nevada foothills; Calochortus clavatus var. clavatus; Calochortus clavatus var. gracilis, commonly called the slender Mariposa lily, found in the western Transverse Ranges including the San Gabriels, Santa Susanas, Santa Monicas, and Simi Hills; Calochortus clavatus var. pallidus; and Calochortus clavatus var. recurvifolius, commonly called Arroyo de la Cruz mariposa lily, which occurs in the southern outer Coast Range, in the area north of Arroyo de la Cruz to Piedras Blancos, San Luis Obispo County.
