Columbia Lily (Lilium columbianum) is a charming lily found along the western coast of North America from California to British Columbia, thriving in diverse ecological conditions including moist to dry meadows, open woodlands, and forest edges. Columbia Lily is highly valued for its elegant woodland presence, featuring large, nodding flowers with recurved petals in soft shades of orange. The whorled leaves and tall stems, emblematic of true lilies, further adds to its visual appeal.
 
Blooming typically occurs in late spring or early summer. During this time, the erect flower stalks emerge above the foliage, showcasing the enchanting flowers. Columbia Lily exhibits a mutualistic relationship with native pollinators, particularly bumblebees and hummingbirds due to their unique skill in foraging from the upside-down flowers. The pollen-laden anthers are easily accessible by the bumblebee, and gently brush the face of hummingbirds as they reach for the nectar deep in the flower.
 
The bulbs were traditionally harvested and consumed by Native peoples as a food source. The nutritious bulbs were prepared in various ways. They were traditionally collected during specific times of the year, carefully dug up, processed, and consumed in various culinary preparations. The consumption of these bulbs played a significant cultural and dietary role and contributed to the sustainable management of plant populations.
 
Columbia Lily thrives in well-drained and slightly acidic to neutral soils. It performs best in fertile, loamy soils, but can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Adequate moisture during the growing season is beneficial for its optimal growth and flowering. Seeds can be surface sown in bulb trays or in place from fall to late winter, and lightly covered with sand or fine soil. Plants in their 2nd year and older require dry dormancy through summer and should only be watered once or twice per month until fall rains return. Seedlings are small, singular, grass-like leaves that require 3-4 years to reach blooming maturity.  With proper conditions and care, Columbia Lily will establish itself and form perennial clumps, continuing to bloom and grace the landscape for years to come.