Pronunciation: [sˈiːɡə͡ʊ lˈɪli] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "sego lily" can be a bit tricky to decipher. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /ˈsiːɡoʊ ˈlɪli/. The first syllable is pronounced like the word "see", followed by "go" and then "lily". The pronunciation of the "i" in "lily" is the same as in the word "ill". The sego lily is a beautiful flower that can be found in western North America, and is the state flower of Utah.
The sego lily, scientifically known as Calochortus nuttallii, is a perennial plant species native to several western states of the United States, particularly Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. It is a member of the lily family (Liliaceae) and is recognized for its distinct beauty and cultural significance.
The sego lily is characterized by its solitary flower, which typically blooms from late spring to early summer. The flower possesses three distinctive petals that resemble delicate, elongated cups, which come in various shades of lavender, pink, and occasionally white. These petals often feature a yellow, orange, or maroon-colored center with intricate patterns, enhancing the plant's aesthetic appeal.
In addition to its visual allure, the sego lily holds cultural significance among several Native American tribes, particularly the Ute people. The plant's starchy, onion-like bulb is edible and was historically consumed by indigenous communities during times of scarcity. Moreover, the sego lily's bulb played a crucial role in sustaining early pioneers in Utah, including the Latter-day Saints, during harsh winters in the mid-19th century.
The sego lily remains a treasured emblem in the state of Utah, where it was designated as the official state flower in 1911. Its resiliency, beauty, and historical significance make it a beloved symbol of the region's natural heritage and its connection to native cultures.
The word "sego lily" has an interesting etymology. The term "sego" is derived from the Utah Native American language, specifically from the Shoshone tribe. In their language, "sego" referred to the edible bulbs of the sego lily plant. The sego lily (Calochortus nuttallii) is a flower native to the western United States, especially prominent in Utah.
The word "lily" in the name "sego lily" may be a bit misleading since the sego lily is not actually from the lily family, but rather from the lily-like flower family known as Calochortus. However, the term "lily" was used in reference to its physical appearance, as the sego lily has beautiful, lily-like petals.
