"Imagination is the beginning of creation."

George Bernard Shaw

Indian Warrior - Pedicularis densiflora 

 Flower Fact:

The Mariposa lily of the genus Calochortus which has over 30 species within California is a delightful early bloomer that has deep cup shaped flowers about two inches across.  Its nectar gland varies with the species with each having its own distinct color and pattern combination.   The colors can range from white, cream, pale yellow, to pink, purple or even a deep maroon.  The name mariposa comes from the Spanish word for butterfly and is linked to the petal shapes.  Native Americans harvested the bulbs in late spring and either ate them raw or cooked or ground them up into a meal.  They thought that these flowers were a special gift from the dry barren slopes on which they were found and honored  it by calling it the Life Plant in their language.

  Discover California Wildflowers - Mary Ruth Casebeer

To participate in a moderated exchange of information about wildflowers, you are invited to join by clicking on the word forum. Forum

I have attempted to create a place to learn, share, and enjoy the incredible diversity of the wildflowers to be found in Tuolumne County of California (Home of Yosemite National Park)  and its nearby surrounding areas.   It has such a variety of terrain, soils, geology, microclimates and elevation differences that all contribute to the numbers of plants and long viewing season that are virtually unmatched in such a relatively small geographic area.  This is truly an opportunity to wonder at the visual offerings that greet all those who choose to explore this marvelous region.

All of the photographs, identifications and accompanying information have been created with the goal of accuracy and completeness.   I would welcome comments, additional information, and/or  input on any mistakes, omissions, or inaccuracies that you discover.  If you find this site has been useful and/or enjoyable, I would appreciate hearing from you through the contact link I've provided.

If simply looking at these lovely images has only whetted your appetite to see and learn more, I would invite you to spend  some time and actually visit the Tuolumne County area and experience for yourself the special opportunities to observe these stunning blooms in their natural habitats.