Hymenocallis or 'Spider Lily' bulbs plants and flowers for the garden

Hymenocallis (amaryllidaceae) is a flowering bulb of many names, 'Spider Lily' or sacred 'Lily of the Incas., peruvian daffodil', 'Ismene' and sometimes 'sea daffodil'.

They species are a perfumed flowering bulb with attractive flowers. The flower of the 'Spider Lily' are a trumpet shaped with a spidery edge like a large 'hoop petticoat with frills' plants will reach around 40cm.

Species and cultivars include Hymenocallis "sulphur queen", H. harrisiana which flowers early in spring, H.littoralis with its has creamy flowers on long stems and H. littoralis "giant". H. festalis is known as 'The sacred lily of the Incas' and has beautiful white flowers. H. eucharidifolia, which prefers light shade is rarely found for sale in Australia.

Growing Hints and Care

Hymenocallis (spider lily) require full sun and a moist but well drained position. Dig in well rotted compost or manure before planting 30cm apart.