Fritillaria affinis

Fritillaria affinis (also known as checker lily or chocolate lily) is a species of flowering plant in the lily family. It is native to western North America, from British Columbia to California, and east to Wyoming and Montana.

Description

Fritillaria affinis is a bulbous perennial that grows up to 1.2 meters tall. The leaves are lanceolate, up to 12 cm long. The flowers are nodding (hanging downwards), bell-shaped, and checkered with purple or brown, hence the common names "checker lily" and "chocolate lily". The fruit is a capsule containing numerous seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

Fritillaria affinis is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and coastal areas. It is most common in the Pacific Northwest, but its range extends south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains.

Cultivation

Fritillaria affinis is cultivated as an ornamental plant. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The bulbs should be planted in the fall, 5-10 cm deep and 10-15 cm apart.

Uses

The bulbs of Fritillaria affinis were traditionally used by Native Americans for food and medicine. They were cooked or dried for later use. The plant was also used in traditional medicine to treat coughs and colds.

Conservation

Fritillaria affinis is not currently considered threatened or endangered. However, habitat loss and over-collection for the horticultural trade are potential threats to the species.

See Also

• Fritillaria
• Liliaceae
• Flora of North America