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Spotted Lily

Lilium columbianum

Last reviewed: July 2026

Lilium columbianum (Spotted Lily) is a native wildflower found across the Pacific Northwest and Northern Rockies. This orange lily blooms from June through August and attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles.

Spotted Lily (Lilium columbianum)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Spotted Lily (Lilium columbianum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–48" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CA, ID, MT, OR and 1 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Spotted lily produces elegant orange flowers with dark spots on tall stems. The plant grows from bulbs and creates attractive vertical accents in partially shaded gardens. After blooming, the foliage dies back naturally in late summer.

Growing Spotted Lily

Grow Spotted Lily in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Spotted Lily is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

  • Goes completely dormant after blooming
  • May appear too wild for formal settings

Wildlife value

The bright orange flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during summer bloom period. The nectar-rich blooms are particularly valuable for native pollinators.

Common questions

Where does Lilium columbianum naturally grow?
Spotted Lily is native to California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, typically found in mountain meadows and forest openings.
When does Spotted Lily bloom?
Lilium columbianum blooms from June through August, producing distinctive orange flowers with dark spots.
What pollinators visit Spotted Lily?
This native lily attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting diverse pollinator populations.
Is Spotted Lily toxic to dogs?
Spotted Lily is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Spotted Lily toxic to cats?
Yes. Spotted Lily is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Is Spotted Lily HOA-friendly?
Spotted Lily is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Spotted Lily? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz