calochortus

[ kal-uh-kawr-tuhs ]

noun

, plural cal·o·chor·tus·es.

1. any plant of the genus Calochortus, of the lily family, as the mariposa lily and the sego lily.

Word History and Origins

Origin of calochortus¹

1813; < New Latin < Greek kal ( ós ) beautiful + -o- -o- + chórtos grass, fodder, originally farmyard; cohort, garth, yard ²

Example Sentences

Calochortus.—Beautiful bulbous plants, called mariposa lilies, requiring warm sheltered spots in rich gritty and well-drained soil.

From Project Gutenberg

This is an exceedingly pretty little Calochortus, much resembling C. Benthami in form, but having pure-white or purplish-blue flowers, which are also covered with hairs and delicately fringed with hairs on the margin.

From Project Gutenberg

Calochortus Luteus.—This very handsome hardy perennial thrives best in sandy peat with a little loam.

From Project Gutenberg

The other liliaceous plants I have met in Utah are two species of zigadenas, Fritillaria atropurpurea, Calochortus Nuttallii, and three or four handsome alliums.

From Project Gutenberg

This plant belongs to the section of Calochortus whose species are known as "star-tulips."

From Project Gutenberg