Calochortus amabilis

Calochortus amabilis, also known as the Golden Globe Lily or Diogenes' Lantern, is a species of flowering plant in the Liliaceae family. It is endemic to California, where it is found in the coastal ranges and the Sierra Nevada.

Description

The Calochortus amabilis is a perennial herb that grows from a bulb. It produces a slender, unbranched stem up to 60 centimeters tall. The basal leaf is 10 to 40 centimeters long and withers by flowering. The inflorescence is a loose cluster of 1 to 6 erect, bell-shaped flowers. Each flower has three sepals and three petals, all bright yellow and up to 4 centimeters long. The fruit is a winged capsule up to 5 centimeters long.

Habitat and Distribution

The Calochortus amabilis is native to the coastal ranges and the Sierra Nevada in California. It grows in open, grassy areas and in chaparral and woodland habitats. It is found at elevations from sea level to 1,200 meters.

Cultivation

The Calochortus amabilis is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers. It prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can be grown in a rock garden or as a container plant.

Conservation Status

The Calochortus amabilis is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, its habitat is being lost to urban development and agriculture, and it is vulnerable to over-collection for the horticultural trade.

References

• Flora of North America (1993). Calochortus amabilis. New York: Oxford University Press.
• Jepson Manual (1993). Calochortus amabilis. Berkeley: University of California Press.