Hymenocallis or ‘Spider Lily’
Hymenocallis (amaryllidaceae) is a flowering bulb of many names, ‘Spider Lily’ or sacred ‘Lily of the Incas, peruvian daffodil’, ‘Ismene’ and sometimes ‘sea daffodil’.
Commonly sold as the Peruvian Spider Lily be careful is you after a specific species as over 50 have been identified, some more garden worthy than others.
They are 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.
Varieties
With a natural habitat from southern America through Mexica to Peru and Venezuala they are a varied group, however growing conditions are remarkably similar. They like damp conditions, a little shade and no frosts.
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.
Propagation is easy from fresh seed or by division of larger clumps.
Hymenocallis or ‘Spider Lily Bulbs’ are available for sale form the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
