Yellow Globe Lily
Calochortus amabilis
Yellow Globe Lily is a charming native California bulb with nodding, globe-shaped golden flowers that resemble delicate fairy lanterns. This spring ephemeral brings enchanting beauty to woodland gardens.
Liliaceae (Lily family)
Mid to late spring (April-June)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: fairy lanterns and goldenstars also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The genus name Calochortus comes from Greek meaning "beautiful grass," referring to the grass-like foliage. "Amabilis" means "pleasing," "likeable," or "lovely" in Latin—a fitting name for these charming flowers. Globe lilies, also called fairy lanterns, have enchanted California naturalists and gardeners for generations. They represent the unique beauty of California's native flora and the state's Mediterranean climate. These ephemeral spring bloomers symbolize the fleeting beauty of California's spring wildflower season. Sacred to indigenous peoples as both food and beauty, they represent the deep connection between California's first peoples and the land.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade; thrives under oak canopy or in woodland edges
Water
Winter-spring moisture (75+ cm annual rainfall); requires dry summer dormancy after flowering
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Clay, Serpentine tolerant, Varied soil types
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep in fall before winter rains
Requires excellent drainage; amend heavy soils with sand or grit
Mulch with leaf litter to mimic natural woodland conditions
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering
Bulbs need hot, dry summer dormancy to survive and rebloom
Difficult to cultivate; best suited for experienced native plant gardeners
Hardy in zones 7-9 with proper drainage and dry summer rest
Naturally hybridizes with Calochortus tolmiei where ranges overlap
Single basal leaf persists through bloom and early fruiting stage
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Native plant gardens and California wildflower gardens
- Woodland and shade gardens
- Rock gardens with native plantings
- Naturalized bulb plantings
- Specialty bulb collections
- Spring ephemeral displays
Traditional Uses
- Bulbs were traditionally eaten by Kashaya Pomo and other California Native peoples
- Prepared by baking or boiling, eaten like potatoes
- Called "bo" by the Pomo people, considered a delicacy
- All Calochortus bulbs are edible but should only be harvested sustainably from cultivated sources
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yellow Globe Lily
are calochortus bulbs edible?
Yes, Calochortus bulbs are edible and were traditionally eaten by California Native peoples. However, they should only be harvested from cultivated sources, never from wild populations, as many species are rare or threatened.
how do you grow yellow globe lily?
Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep in fall in well-drained, shaded locations. They need winter-spring moisture and hot, dry summer dormancy. Best suited for experienced gardeners familiar with California native bulbs.
why is it called fairy lantern?
The common name 'fairy lantern' refers to the nodding, globe-shaped flowers that resemble delicate paper lanterns hanging gracefully from their stems, creating an enchanted woodland appearance.
where does yellow globe lily grow naturally?
Yellow Globe Lily is endemic to Northern California, growing in shaded woodlands, chaparral, and oak forests in the Coast Ranges and Klamath Mountains, typically from 100-4,900 feet elevation.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Fairy Lantern
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Goldenstar
Bloomeria crocea
A charming California native bulb producing clusters of bright yellow star-shaped flowers. Named after early San Francisco botanist Hiram Green Bloomer, this geophyte adds delicate beauty to spring wildflower displays.
White Camas
Camassia quamash (white form)
White Camas is a rare white-flowering form of the beloved native bulb with star-shaped flowers on tall spikes. This stunning spring bloomer was a vital food source for indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest.