Bulb scales: large 2-5; small 45-50. Stem 1-4 dm, ± glaucous. Leaves 4-20, in whorls of 2-3 leaves per node proximally, alternate distally, 5-15 cm, often equaling or larger than inflorescence; blade linear, glaucous; distal leaves usually ca. 1/3-1/2 length of proximalmost leaf. Flowers ± erect, occasionally nodding; tepals purplish, clearly mottled greenish yellow, 1.4-1.9 cm, apex not recurved; nectaries obscure, yellow, dotted brown, widely ovate, 2/3 tepal length; style obviously branched to near base, branches longer than 1.5 mm. Capsules angled. 2n = 26.

Flowering May--Jun. Shaded or partially shaded granitic slopes; 1800--3200 m; Calif.

Fritillaria pinetorum is easily confused with F. atropurpurea.