Trout Lily, California Fawn Lily (Erythronium californicum)

Trout lily (Erythronium californicum), also called California fawn lily or dog's tooth violet, is a spring-ephemeral bulb native to California. A member of the Liliaceae family, it's prized for its nodding, cream-yellow flowers and mottled foliage.

Description

Low perennial 8–16 inches tall. Two basal leaves, ovate, heavily mottled with brown/purple. Single nodding flower: 6 reflexed petals, cream to pale yellow, often with a greenish base. Blooms early spring (March–April). Goes dormant by early summer.

Growing Conditions

• Zones: 7–9.
• Light: Part shade to dappled shade (woodland).
• Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained, humusy.
• Water: Spring moisture; dry summer dormancy.
• Planting: Plant bulbs 4–6 inches deep, 4 inches apart in fall.

Care & Maintenance

Allow foliage to die back. No summer water. Mulch with leaf mold. Divide slowly spreading clumps. Self-seeds modestly.

Uses

Woodland gardens, shade borders, naturalized under oaks. Early pollinator forage.

Potential Issues

Bulb rot in wet soil. Slugs. Generally trouble-free in proper conditions.

A delicate, mottled-leaf beauty that lights up the spring woodland.