Lycoris are grown as hardy bulbs in the garden
Plants reach from 30 to 90 cm (1 to 3 feet) in height.
They carry small flowers of red, pink, yellow or white that are reminiscent of tiny lilies.
Some of the common names for Lycoris include Hardy Amaryllis, Spider Lily and magic Lily.
Lycoris radiata, Red Spider Lily flower photographs by TANAKA Juuyoh.
Common Names: Cluster Amaryllis, Hurricane Lily, Magic Lily, Spider Lily, Stone Garlic, Red Spider Lily, Surprise Lily.
Life Cycle: Hardy bulb.
Height: 12 to 36 inches (30 to 90 cm).
Native: Asia.
Growing Region: Zones 7 to 10.
Flowers: Late summer through to autumn.
Flower Details: White, red, pink, orange, yellow. Lily-like. Umbel; four to eight flowers.
Foliage: Slender. Long.
Hardy Amaryllis and other Lycoris members can be grown from bulbs or seeds. The bulbs should be burried at a depth of 10 cm (4 inches; small Lycoris species) or 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches; larger varieties) at the start of august.
Seeds should be sown fresh into flats, at the end of summer or beginning of autumn in a shady location; once sown lightly cover Lycoris seeds with soil then cover the flats with glass. Lycoris can grow in either partially shaded or sunny parts of the garden that has good drainage.
They like to grow in a soil that is rich, moist and as a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is best to allow the seedlings to grow for a year until they have formed bulbs, then transplant them about 10 cm apart (4 inches; small) to 40 cm apart (16 inches; large Lycoris species).
If you require more Lycoris plants in your garden then it is best to propagate from the bulblets that they produce.
The Lycoris genus comprises approximately 20 species. They are known for their beautiful, spider-like flowers.
Yes, Lycoris plants, often called surprise lilies, can make a lovely addition to a garden, providing a burst of color in late summer.
The most commonly grown species include Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily) and Lycoris squamigera (Surprise Lily).
Some Lycoris species, like Lycoris squamigera, do have a pleasant fragrance.
Lycoris prefers a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil. It's great for adding late-summer interest to borders and beds.
Presently, Lycoris is not considered invasive in the USA.
To remove Lycoris, carefully dig up the bulbs when the plants are dormant. Be sure to get all bulb offsets to prevent regrowth.
The Lycoris genus, part of the Amaryllidaceae family, includes perennial plants native to East Asia. Often used in borders and woodland gardens, these plants are known for their spider-like flowers that typically bloom in late summer or early fall.
Lycoris thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods. Bulbs should be planted in late summer or early fall for optimal growth.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Lycoris plants. You may also enjoy my gardening guides on how to grow Bulbinella, Nemesia plant, and Hacquetia plants.