Avalanche-lily
Erythronium grandiflorum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Avalanche-lily is a charming spring wildflower that produces nodding white or yellow blooms on short stems. The plant goes completely dormant by midsummer, disappearing until the following spring. It prefers cooler, shadier spots and takes several years to establish from seed.
In an HOA neighborhood
Avalanche-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.
- Completely disappears by midsummer leaving bare ground
- Very short bloom period creates temporary appearance
- Can look sparse and unfinished in formal landscapes
Wildlife value
The early spring flowers provide nectar for native bees and beetles when few other food sources are available. This makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinators emerging from winter dormancy.
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.
Does Avalanche-lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.