A plant with a few names Zephyranthes are often called the ‘Rain Lily’ or ‘Autumn Crocus’ they have small flowers that appear as a neat bud and open fully after a day.
Reaching 15 – 20cm in height they bloom in late summer to autumn as the rains begin. It is a bulb responds to rain by flowering.
Z. grandiflora is a pink flowering species, while the smaller growing species Z. candida has attractive white flowers.
How to Grow Zephranthes
Planting
Plant these bulbs in a sunny position in a well drained humus rich soil for best results. The bulbs are available for sale during the winter months when they are dormant. So planting time is late winter to early spring.
Care
This is a very easy care bulb its a great surviver and like most bulbs they work well when planted in groups or small clumps and can also be grown in pots or containers.
Zephyranthes are best left undisturbed for best performance, larger clumps can be divided during dormancy. Protect new growth from frosts.
Propagation
Easy by division of clumps during dormancy. Zephyranthes can be grown from seed, be a little patient as they can take 4 – 5 years to flower from seed.
Zephyranthes varieties
- Zephyranthes citrina is the yellow flowering species, difficult to find in Australia.
- The two most commonly available species in Australia are Z. candida and Z. grandiflora.
- Other species that are worth looking for include:
- Z. drummondii is originally from Texas and is sometimes called the ‘Prairie Lily’.
- Z. reginae is another yellow flowering form from Mexico.
- Z. atamasca is another white flowering form.
- Z. carinata is known as the “Pink Storm Lily’
- Z. primulina is the ‘Primrose Rain Lily’
Try plant fairs and garden shows for these species.
Zephyranthes Bulbs are available for sale from the following nurseries
Large range of Rare, Unusual and Old Fashioned Perennials. Includes Artemisias, Achilleas, Geraniums, Geums, Salvias, Penstemon and Francoa.
www.yellowhouseheritageperennials.com.au
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
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au