Alternate name: White Avalanche-lily, Glacier Lily

Family: Liliaceae, Lily view all from this family

Description 1-5 showy white flowers not at end of a stalk that grows from between 2 broadly lanceolate basal leaves.
Flowers: about 2 1/2" (5 cm) wide; 6 petal-like segments that curve back, white except for a yellow band at base, becoming pink with age; stamens 6, protruding from center.
Leaves: 4-8" (10-20 cm) long, abruptly tapered to a distinct stalk.
Height: 6-10" (15-25 cm).

Flower June-September.

Habitat Alpine or subalpine meadows and forests.

Range British Columbia to northern Oregon.

Discussion This mountain species blooms just after the snow melts, often carpeting meadows with its white flowers. There are a number of western species, some with cream or yellow flowers, others with pinkish ones.