Definition

Noun: 1. A type of flowering plant: A mariposa tulip is any of several bulbous perennial plants belonging to the genus Calochortus. They are characterized by their showy, upright flowers which have three sepals and three petals, giving them a tulip-like appearance. These plants are native to regions including the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Examples

• The hillside was covered in the vibrant colors of the mariposa tulip after the spring rains.
• Botanists study the various species of mariposa tulip to understand their adaptation to arid climates.
• A single mariposa tulip, with its delicate, spotted petals, stood out against the dry soil.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in botanical and horticultural contexts to describe plants within this specific genus. It can also be used more generally in nature writing and descriptions of wildflower displays.
  • The conservation efforts focus on protecting the habitat of the endangered mariposa tulip.

Variants and Related Words

• Mariposa lily: A common synonym for mariposa tulip, also referring to plants in the genus .
• Calochortus: The scientific genus name for mariposa tulips and related lilies.
• Globe tulip / Fairy lantern: Common names for other species within the same genus () that have more globular or nodding flowers.

Synonyms

• Mariposa lily
• Butterfly tulip (a less common variant, playing on the meaning of "mariposa," which is Spanish for butterfly)

Notes on Meaning

• The name "mariposa" is Spanish for "butterfly," likely referring to the beautiful, wing-like appearance of the petals.
• While called a "tulip," it is not a true tulip (genus ) but is a member of the lily family (Liliaceae). The name describes the flower's shape, not its botanical classification.

Noun

1. any of several plants of the genus Calochortus having tulip-shaped flowers with 3 sepals and 3 petals; southwestern United States and Mexico