From Japan, Lycoris sprengeri is perhaps one of the prettiest of the genus. This is an autumn flowering species that flowers before the foliage and then carries the foliage through winter and into spring. Dormant in summer.
A smaller growing bulb than most of the genus the foliage is lower and finer and the flower stem will reach around 45cm.
This is a varied species with colour differing a little depending on the origin. The flowers of the best described as an electric blue to purple with gold in the throat
Care
The trick to growing Lycoris sprengeri is to make sure it gets a warm summer, however it also likes a little moisture during dormancy. Given these conditions it will flower well.
- Plant with the neck of the bulb just below soil level.
- Full sun to part shade – a little summer shade will help with moisture retention.
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser. And keep just slightly moist through summer and autumn.
- If Lycoris sprengeri bulbs do not flower the first season, be patient, they can ‘sulk’ a little after transplanting.
Lycoris are available for sale from the following nurseries
BRYAN H TONKIN - Ph (03) 9728 1295 Fax (03) 9728 1299
'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
'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