Calochortus westonii facts for kids

The Calochortus westonii, also known as the Shirley Meadow star-tulip, is a very rare plant. It is found only in a specific area of California, in the Greenhorn Mountains. This mountain range is part of the southern Sierra Nevada mountains, located within Kern and Tulare Counties.

This special plant likes to grow in open areas like meadows and woodlands. You can find it at high places, usually between 1,500 and 2,000 meters (about 4,900 to 6,500 feet) above sea level.

What Does the Shirley Meadow Star-Tulip Look Like?

The Shirley Meadow star-tulip is a type of plant that grows from a bulb, much like an onion or a tulip. It can grow up to about 15 centimeters (6 inches) tall.

• Leaves: The leaves of this plant grow from the very bottom, or base, of the plant. They are long and narrow, like a line, and can be up to 20 centimeters (8 inches) long. They stay on the plant for a long time.
• Flowers:
  • Sepals: These are the green, leaf-like parts that protect the flower bud before it opens. They can be up to 10 millimeters (about 0.4 inches) long.
  • Petals: The petals are the colorful parts of the flower. They are shaped like a spearhead and can be up to 12 millimeters (about 0.5 inches) long. Along their edges, they have long, soft hairs.