Calochortaceae

/ˌkæl.oʊ.kɔːrˈteɪ.si.i/ noun

Definition

A plant family including the mariposa lilies and globe lilies, characterized by colorful bulbous flowers.

Etymology

From Greek 'kalos' (beautiful) and 'chortos' (grass or pasture), plus the taxonomic suffix '-aceae' denoting a plant family. The name celebrates the beautiful flowers of these plants.

Kelly Says

Mariposa lilies are named for their magnificent star-shaped flowers that look almost alien—'calochortaceae' members have some of the most intricate and colorful bulb flowers in North America, yet many people have never seen one.

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