Lilium humboldtii

Phonetic Spelling

LIL-ee-um hum-BOLDT-ee-eye

Common Names

• Humboldt’s Lily
• Leopard Lily

Appearance

• Size: Grows up to 6–8 feet tall.
• Leaves: Whorled, lance-shaped leaves with a glossy green appearance.
• Flowers: Striking, downward-facing orange flowers with dark maroon spots and curled-back petals, blooming in late spring to summer. They are often spotted near the ground and are very popular with hummingbirds due to their bright colors.

Habitats

Native to California’s mountain woodlands and chaparral, often found in shady, moist slopes.

• Bommer Canyon, a hiking space provided by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy, has a couple!

Environmental Impacts

• Provides nectar for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
• Helps maintain biodiversity in its native mountainous regions.

Growth Factors

• Sunlight: Prefers partial shade.
• Soil: Well-drained, rich soil.
• Water: Requires consistent moisture but not excessive watering.

Fun Facts

• Named after German explorer Alexander von Humboldt.
• Seeds require cold stratification to germinate.