About Calochortus excavatus Greene
Calochortus excavatus, also called Calochortus excavatus Greene, is a perennial bulb that produces a slender, unbranched stem that reaches a maximum height of around 30 centimeters (12 inches). Its inflorescence holds 1 to 6 upright, bell-shaped flowers arranged in a tight cluster. Each flower has three spotless sepals and three white petals. The outer surfaces of the petals may have green striping, and petals typically have a red-purple blotch at the base. The anthers of this species range in color from reddish to purple. This flowering plant is endemic to eastern California. It is only confirmed to occur in a small number of reduced, threatened populations located in Mono County and Inyo County. It grows in grassy areas within alkaline Shadscale scrub plant communities, growing alongside Atriplex and other halophyte species native to playas. Most of its known habitat is located in Owens Valley. This species is classified as endangered, and it is threatened by the loss of local groundwater.
