Lycoris aurea (Golden Spider Lily)

Perfect for the late summer garden, Lycoris aurea (Golden Spider Lily) is a bulbous perennial boasting eye-catching umbels of 5-6 wavy-margined, golden-yellow flowers, adorned with elegantly curled petals and protruding stamens. Each umbel can be up to 8 in. across (20 cm) with any given flower about half that size. Blooming in late summer to early fall, the blossoms appear before the foliage of semi-erect, fleshy, strap-shaped leaves, which remain fresh-looking until the bulb goes dormant. Lycoris aurea is a lovely flowering bulb, adding a welcome spot of color at a time when many plants are preparing to go dormant. It is perfect for the vase too, as it is renowned as an excellent cut flower.

• Grows up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 4-6 in. wide (10-15 cm).
• Best flowering occurs in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil that dries out in summer. Water lightly until top growth emerges, then moderately during its growing period. Protect in colder areas with a deep, dry mulch over winter. In areas with wet summers grow as a container plant.
• This plant deserves a prime spot in beds and borders and is well suited for city gardens, cottage gardens, rock gardens or containers. Plant in groups of 3-5 minimum for best visual impact.
• Virtually pest and disease free. Deer resistant, drought tolerant and attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds!
• Propagate by seed, sown with moderate heat as soon as ripe or remove offsets after flowering
• Native to China, Japan