Erythronium howellii

S.Watson

Howell's Fawn-lily

Liliaceae Edible: Root, Bulb Potential hazards — see below 44 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Erythronium howellii, or Howell's fawn lily, is a flowering plant in the lily family Liliaceae. It is endemic to the Klamath Mountains of southwestern Oregon and northwestern California. Taxonomic authorities are divided on whether E. howellii is a distinct species from the morphologically similar E. citrinum.

Description

A bulbous perennial reaching 30cm in height. Not frost tender. Flowers bloom April to May with seeds ripening June to July. Hermaphroditic flowers are insect-pollinated. Grows in light sandy or medium loamy, well-drained soil suitable across mildly acid to basic pH levels. Adapts to semi-shade in light woodland environments and requires moist soil conditions.

Edible Uses

Based on use recorded for the closely related E. origonum, the bulb of this species is likely edible raw, cooked, or dried for later use.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, the following notes have been seen for another member of this genus and so some caution is advised. Skin contact with the bulbs has been known to cause dermatitis in sensitive people.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Canada, North America, USA,

Cultivation

Prefers slightly acid soil conditions but succeeds in chalky soils if these contain plenty of humus. Requires semi-shade, preferably provided by trees or shrubs, and a well-drained soil. Succeeds in almost any light soil, preferring one that is rich in humus. Plants are hardy to at least -15°c. Bulbs should be planted about 7cm deep. This species is closely related to E. helenae, E. origonum, E. citrinum and E. californicum. According to the Flora of North America, this species is no more than a synonym for E. citrinum.

Propagation

Seed is best sown as soon as it is ripe in a shady position in a cold frame. Water lightly in summer; it should germinate in autumn or winter. Stored seed requires a period of cold stratification and should be sown as early in spring as possible in a cold frame. Sow thinly so that seedlings will not need pricking out in their first year. Give an occasional liquid feed to prevent nutrient deficiency. When plants are dormant, pot up the small bulbs 2–3 per pot and grow on in a shady position in the greenhouse for a further 2–3 years before planting out into permanent positions when dormant in late summer. When dividing bulbs in summer as the leaves die down, larger bulbs can be replanted immediately into permanent positions, while smaller bulbs are best potted up and grown on in a shady position in a greenhouse for a year before planting out when dormant in late summer.