[Wikipedia] Description, Distribution: Calochortus excavatus is a species of flowering plant in the lily family known by the common name Inyo County star-tulip. 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] (link added by Mary Ann Machi)