From Japan, Lycoris squamigera is one of the taller growing of the genus it copes well in cold conditions as well as warm temperate climates.
The flowers are large and on tall stems to 60cm high, four to five flowers in a rosette on each stem. This is a sterile hybrid that multiplies by division. Thought to be a natural hybrid between the wonderful L. spengerii and either L. longituba or L. staminea it is a little variable depending on the source of the bulbs.
Rosy pink flowers last well if protected from hot sun, Lycoris squamigera looks great planted in clumps.
Care
Lycoris squamigera respond well to a humus rich moisture retentive soil. They like a little fertilizer in spring and a sunny aspect with protection from very hot afternoon sun.
As for transplanting Lycoris squamigera, this is best carried out while dormant. Take as much of the root system as you can and plant at the same depth in newly prepared well composted soil. You can grow them in a large pot, however remember that they can take a while to settle in and flower, and may outgrow the pot in a few years.
- Plant with the neck of the bulb just below soil level.
- A position towards the back of the border where they will not be disturbed is best
- Do do water in summer – they like a dry rest
- 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.
- These are a large bulb once established so plant 30 cm apart to give them ‘room to grow’.
Lycorissquamigera are available for sale from the following nurseries
'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