Paradisea Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 23rd Oct 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Paradisea plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Paradise Lily, St. Bruno's lily: Cultivation & Garden Use

The Paradisea plant genus includes two members: Paradisea liliastrum and Paradisea lusitanica; these go by the common names of Paradise Lily or St. Bruno's lily.

Paradisea is an hardy perennial that reaches about 24 to 32 inches (60 to 80 cm) in height, with the Portuguese and Spanish native P. lusitanica being slightly higher at 32 to 40 inches (80 to 100 cm).

It is an alpine meadow plant that carries white funnel shaped flowers that bloom towards the end of spring.

Paradisea liliastrum by mr.bong.bing.

How to Grow Paradise Lily

Paradise Lilies can be grown either from seed or from roots. If growing from roots then bury them about 8 cm (~3 inches) deep in either the spring or autumn.

Paradise Lilies are able to thrive in either a sunny or partially shaded part of the garden, and require good drainage. The soil should be rich and deep.

If you plan to grow Paradise Lily (Paradisea) from seeds, then sow the seeds into flats in the springtime. The flats should then be put into a plastic bag and placed in the fridge for about three weeks.

The flats should then be sank into a shady part of the garden. It may take from one to six months to germinate.

As soon as seedlings emerge, transplant them into their desired location. It will take about three years before seed grown Paradisea will flower.

Caring for Paradisea

It is necessary to mulch Paradise lilies in the autumn, and to feed them in the spring with fertilizer. They like a moist soil so regular watering is recommended when growing Paradise Lilies.

If you require more plants then Paradisea can be propagated by division in the springtime.

Common Questions

How many members does the Paradisea genus contain?

The Paradisea plant genus is quite small, having only three known species.

Do Paradisea members make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Paradisea plants, also known as paradise lilies, can be an appealing addition to a garden, with their graceful, lily-like flowers.

Which Paradisea species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most frequently grown species is the Paradisea liliastrum, also known as St. Bruno's lily.

Are Paradisea plants fragrant?

Paradisea plants are not known for having a strong fragrance.

What is the perfect location to grow Paradisea?

These plants prefer partially shaded locations with well-drained, moist, and fertile soil.

Is Paradisea invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, Paradisea is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Paradisea plants from my garden?

To remove Paradisea, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring to remove all the root system to prevent the plant from re-emerging.

Summary

The Paradisea genus, part of the Asparagaceae family, comprises perennial plants. These plants, commonly called paradise lilies, are native to Europe and are known for their beautiful, lily-like flowers.

Paradisea prefers a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained, fertile soil. Planting is typically done in spring. These plants can add a unique charm to borders, rockeries, or woodland gardens due to their elegant floral display.

I hope that you found this guide on how to grow grow Paradisea plants in your garden. You may also enjoy my gardening guides on how to grow Ixora coccinea, Washingtonia robusta, and Veronica plants.