Rocky Mountain mariposa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rocky Mountain mariposa |
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| Calochortus gunnisonii var. gunnisonii Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Calochortus
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| Species: |
gunnisonii
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Gunnison's mariposa lily (Calochortus gunnisonii) is a beautiful flowering plant. It belongs to the lily family. This plant grows naturally in North America. You can find it mainly in the western United States.
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About Gunnison's Mariposa Lily
Gunnison's mariposa lily is a type of plant that grows from a bulb. It is a perennial, which means it lives for more than two years. Its stems can grow up to 55 centimeters (about 22 inches) tall.
What the Flowers Look Like
The flowers of this lily are very pretty. They can be white or purple. Often, they have darker purple marks on them. These marks make each flower unique.
Where It Grows Naturally
This lily is native to the Rocky Mountains and Black Hills. You can find it in many states. These include Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. It also grows in South Dakota and parts of Washington. You might even spot it in northwestern Nebraska and eastern Idaho.
Different Types of Gunnison's Lily
There are a couple of main types, or varieties, of Gunnison's mariposa lily:
- Calochortus gunnisonii var. gunnisonii - This is the most common type. It grows across most of the plant's natural range.
- Calochortus gunnisonii var. perpulcher - This variety is found in New Mexico.
Images for kids
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Gunnison's mariposa lily in Teller County, Colorado
