Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily)

Perfect for the late summer garden, Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily) is a bulbous perennial boasting eye-catching umbels of 4-6 brilliant coral-red flowers with a golden sheen, adorned with elegantly curled petals and exceptionally long stamens.

Perfect for the late summer garden, Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily) is a bulbous perennial boasting eye-catching umbels of 4-6 brilliant coral-red flowers with a golden sheen, adorned with elegantly curled petals and exceptionally long stamens. Blooming in late summer to early fall, the blossoms appear on naked stems. The foliage of strap-shaped, dark green leaves with a hint of blue, emerges after flowering and persists all winter long, fading in late spring. Lycoris radiata is a lovely flowering bulb, adding vibrancy to the waning fall landscape.

  • Grows up to 12-24 in. tall (30-60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). Plants will naturalize by bulb-offsets to quickly form small colonies.
  • Best flowering occurs in part shade in organically rich, medium moisture, 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. Tolerates full sun.
  • This plant deserves a prime spot in beds and borders and is well suited for cottage gardens or large containers. Plant in groups of 3-5 minimum for best visual impact.
  • Virtually pest and disease free. Deer resistant and attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds!
  • Plants are best left undisturbed in the soil.
  • Native to Japan

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 10

Heat Zones 7
– 10

Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1
Plant Type Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Lycoris – Spider Lilies
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Late)Fall
Height 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 4″ (10cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Showy
Attracts Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden