Calochortus macrocarpus, also known as sagebrush mariposa lily, is a North American species of bulbous perennials in the lily family.

Distribution

The plant is native to the Northwestern United States (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and western Montana), northern California, northern Nevada, and a small area of southern British Columbia. Habitats include the Great Basin and Cascade Range.

Description

Calochortus macrocarpus leaves are blue-green and grass-like. The bulbs are tapering, like a carrot. The flowers are large, one- to three-petaled, and are pink to purple. The sepals are about 2 inches long, slightly longer than the green-striped petals. They typically bloom in June and July.

Uses

First peoples in southern British Columbia harvested the bulbs from April to June. They can be eaten raw or cooked.