Hymenocallis caribaea Variegata (Caribbean Spider Lily)

Hymenocallis caribaea ‘Variegata’ (Caribbean Spider Lily) is a tender bulbous perennial boasting showy umbels of vanilla-scented, pure white flowers from mid-summer to late fall. The flowers open up to look like giant white spiders, each blossom featuring a central cup and 6 incredibly long, slender petals.

Hymenocallis caribaea 'Variegata' (Caribbean Spider Lily) is a tender bulbous perennial boasting showy umbels of vanilla-scented, pure white flowers from mid-summer to late fall. The flowers open up to look like giant white spiders, each blossom featuring a central cup and 6 incredibly long, slender petals. The flowers rise atop leafless stalks, well above the striking foliage which is striped in creamy white. A terrific plant near ponds and streams or for the water garden, even when not in bloom.

  • Grows in clumps up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm) and 12 in. wide (30 cm).
  • Performs best in full sun to part shade in moist, organically rich, well-drained soil. Can be grown in water to 6 in. (15 cm) over the crown.
  • Reliable, easy to grow, generally disease and pest free.
  • To overwinter in cold climates, dig up the bulbs and store them in a cool, dry place.
  • Propagate by division.
  • Native to the islands of the Caribbean and to northern South America.

Requirements

Hardiness 7
– 11

Plant Type Aquatic Plants, Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Hymenocallis
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid,Late)
Height 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spread 1'
(30cm)
Water Needs Average, High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams, Water Gardens
Garden Styles Mediterranean Garden