Pointedtip Mariposa Lily
Calochortus apiculatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pointedtip Mariposa Lily (Calochortus apiculatus) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ID, MT, WA, WY
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Pointedtip mariposa lily is a delicate wildflower that produces elegant cup-shaped blooms in late spring and early summer. This low-growing perennial forms small clumps with narrow leaves and distinctive three-petaled flowers. It requires minimal water once established and thrives in sunny, well-drained locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pointedtip Mariposa 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 after blooming, leaving bare spots
- Very small size makes it appear sparse in maintained landscapes
- Wildflower appearance may not meet formal landscaping standards
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the blooming period from May through July. As a native bulb, it provides early season nectar when few other plants are flowering.
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 Pointedtip Mariposa Lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.