Red Spider Lily (Lycoris radiata) Southern Heirloom Triploid - 5 bulbs

Red Spider Lily (Lycoris radiata): A Gardener's Guide to the Enchanting Resurrection Flower

We're currently shipping these vibrant bulbs "in the green," which means they are plump, healthy, and eager to be planted. Expect the foliage to yellow and die back naturally—this is a normal process where the leaves nourish the bulbs for future blooms.  

A Lily of Many Names: The Red Spider Lily's Regional Nickname

Lycoris radiata is known by various names across the United States:

Red Spider Lily:  Named for its striking red color and spidery stamens.
Hurricane Lily: Often blooms after the first fall hurricane.
Naked Lady: Blooms on a bare stalk before foliage emerges.
Schoolhouse Lily: Blooms around the start of the school year.
Surprise Lily: Appears unexpectedly with a burst of color.

The Red Spider Lily's Unique Bloom Cycle: A Timeline

Understanding the Red Spider Lily's bloom cycle is key to successful cultivation.
Most people still expect to see something growing during the summer months. You won't see anything.
These lilies are dormant in the summer. The flowers suddenly appear with the first later summer and early fall rains.
One day there is nothing growing and then suddenly you have a surprise, a fully blooming flower!

1. Planting (Late Summer): The ideal time to plant for a beautiful fall display.
2. Dormancy (Summer): Bulbs rest underground, conserving energy.
3. Surprise Blooms (Late Summer/Early Fall): Flowers emerge seemingly overnight.
4. Foliage Growth (Fall/Winter): Leaves appear, gathering nutrients for the following year.

Nurturing the Foliage: The Key to Red Spider Lily Success

The foliage is vital for the bulb's health and reproduction. Don't be discouraged if you don't see blooms the first year – healthy foliage is a positive sign of bulb establishment.

Sunlight Requirements: Ensuring a Spectacular Bloom

Red Spider Lilies need a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight in the winter. This sunlight is crucial for foliage growth and energy production for next year's blooms.

Planting and Care Tips for Red Spider Lilies

Planting Depth: Plant bulbs 2-3 times their height deep.
Soil Type: While adaptable, they thrive in soil rich in organic matter.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and during dry periods.
Fertilizer: Avoid fertilizing newly planted bulbs; established plants benefit from fertilizer during active foliage growth.

Dividing and Multiplying Your Red Spider Lily Garden

Early spring is ideal for dividing, but it can be done whenever convenient. Remember, transplanting might cause the lilies to skip a blooming cycle.

Companion Plants for Red Spider Lilies: A Symphony of Color

Enhance your garden's beauty by pairing Red Spider Lilies with other perennials, annuals, or bulbs for continuous blooms:

Perennials: Salvias, Lantanas, Plumbago, Phlox
Annuals: Alyssum, Snapdragons, Pansies, Cyclamen
Bulbs: Narcissus, Iris, Snowflakes, Rain Lilies, Crinums, Hymenocallis

FAQ's

How far in advance should lily bulbs be planted before the last frost in early spring and the first frost in the fall?


For early spring planting, aim to have your lily bulbs in the ground at least four weeks before the last frost. For fall planting, aim to have fall lily bulbs in the ground at least four weeks before the first frost.

Can lilies be planted in the fall, and if so, when is the best time to plant fall lily bulbs?


Lilies can also be planted in the fall, around the same time that you’d be planting tulips and daffodils. Aim to have fall lily bulbs in the ground at least four weeks before the first frost.



When is the best time to plant lily bulbs in relation to the last frost in early spring?


Aim to have your lily bulbs in the ground at least four weeks before the last frost in early spring.

Your Red Spider Lily Journey Starts Today!

Order your Red Spider Lily bulbs now and witness the magic of these captivating flowers in your own garden. With their unique charm and resilience, they are guaranteed to become a treasured part of your landscape.