Lemon Lily [Lilium parryi Wats.]
Listing CNPS List 1B R-E-D Code 2-2-2
State/Federal. Status -- /C2 LILIACEAE Jul.-Aug.
Global Rank G3 State Rank S2.1
Distribution: San Diego County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County; Arizona
Habitat: Riparian Forest is the general habitat for Lemon Lily. In the Palomar Mountains it occurs in partial shade in very mesic conditions close to French Creek, with the regionally uncommon Cicuta douglasii growing nearby. Soils here are mapped as Loamy alluvial land.
Known Sites: Lemon Lily is very rare and localized near French Creek on Palomar Mountain. As the flowers are quite conspicuous, it is extremely difficult to protect this lily from "flower pullers" who encounter the species by chance. Apparently, other sites near more heavily travelled Doane Pond are no longer extant. The reintroduction of bulbs grown from local seed seems the only alternative to extirpation. A herbarium specimen was noted from the south fork of the Santa Ana River in the San Bernardino Mountains where this lily is reportedly locally common. Also reported at the east end of the San Gabriel Mountains and sporadically in the San Jacinto Mountains. Reported by Krantz near Bluff Lake, southwest of Big Bear Lake. Reported by Lehr for Arizona where it also warrents protection.
Status: Lemon Lily is close to extirpation in San Diego County and is uncommon throughout its California range. All populations should be protected.
Copyright © May 1994 Craig H. Reiser.