Growing Calochortus Albus

Calochortus albus, commonly known as the Globe Lily or Fairy Lantern, grows natively only in California. This delicate lily is found in areas ranging from deep-to-light shade and blooms in the early spring into early summer, depending on the location. The seeds and bulbs are enjoyed by animals and so may require protection from wildlife when planted outdoors. The C. albus adapted to the wet spring and dry summer conditions found in their native California habitat. They do not tolerate overwatering well, especially in the summer and fall, when the plant goes dormant and the leaves die back.

Light, well-draining rocky soil
Soft rock phosphate (optional)
1-inch chicken wire (optional)
Wire cutters

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare a mix of light, well-draining, rocky soil in a pot or garden bed. Amend it with soft rock phosphate if the soil is not naturally rocky.
- 2
  Spread the seeds in the fall and cover them with a thin soil layer. The seeds take 3 to 5 years to grow into corms and reach maturity. The University of Texas at Austin Native Plant Database relates that they are difficult to cultivate and flowering bulbs must be raised from seeds for any success. The bulbs must be kept dry from midsummer to late fall.
- 3
  Plant the bulbs in locations not accessible to deer, gopher and squirrels. Nancy Gilbert recommends placing them in rocky outcrops, under shrubs or on steep banks.
- 4
  Creating a subsurface cage of 1-inch chicken wire covering the ground surface deter burrowing wildlife.
- 5
  Water as needed but sparingly in the late winter through spring if there is no rain or if it is planted in a pot. The C. albus does not require much water. Once the leaves die back, allow them to dry out so the bulb does not rot.

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