American Chocolate Lily
Fritillaria biflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 3"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fritillaria biflora is a native bulb that produces distinctive nodding bell-shaped flowers in spring. This compact perennial goes dormant in summer, disappearing completely until the following spring when it emerges with fresh foliage and blooms.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Chocolate Lily takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare soil for most of growing season
- Subtle flowers may appear weedy to traditional gardeners
- Very short growing period makes it look like failed planting
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring blooming period. As a native bulb, it provides early season nectar when few other plants are flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does American Chocolate Lily need?
- American Chocolate Lily grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does American Chocolate Lily bloom?
- American Chocolate Lily blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is American Chocolate Lily native?
- American Chocolate Lily (Fritillaria biflora) is native to CA, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does American Chocolate Lily attract?
- American Chocolate Lily draws bees and beetles.
- Is American Chocolate Lily HOA-friendly?
- American Chocolate Lily takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Chocolate Lily? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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