[Wikipedia] Description, Distribution: Calochortus excavatus is a species of flowering plant in the lily family known by the common name Inyo County star-tulip.[3][4] Distribution The flowering plant is endemic to eastern California, where it is known from several reduced and threatened populations in Mono and Inyo Counties.[5] It occupies grassy habitats in alkaline Shadscale scrub plant communities, alongside Atriplex and other playa halophyte flora, primarily in Owens Valley.[4] The species is listed as endangered, threatened by the loss of local groundwater.[6] Description Calochortus excavatus is a perennial bulb, growing a slender unbranched stem to about 30 centimetres (12 in) in maximum height.[3] The inflorescence bears 1 to 6 erect bell-shaped flowers in a close cluster. Each flower has three sepals which lack spotting, and three white petals. The petals may have green striping on their outer surfaces and generally have a red-purple blotch at the base. The anthers are reddish to purple.[3][7] (contributed by Mary Ann Machi)