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Red spider lily

Lycoris radiata

Red spider lily

Red spider lily’s brilliant red flowers remind me of an azalea’s ball truss. Blooms fade quickly in hot weather, but a higher degree of shade helps them last a while longer. Depending on where it grows in the Southeast, red spider lily blooms from early September to mid-October. After the bloom stalks fade away, foot-long, strap-shaped leaves emerge and last through winter. Red spider lily is an heirloom bulb that is easily passed from hand to hand. Replant offsets as the leaves die in spring. -Parker Andes, Fine Gardening #147 (October 2012), page 71

Noteworthy CharacteristicsBrilliant red flowers.

PropagationReplant offsets in spring, as the leaves die.

ProblemsThe blooms fade quickly in high heat.

  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 10, 7, 8, 9
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Fall, Late Fall
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Fall Interest
  • Foliage Color : Green
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Light : Partial Shade
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Flower Color : Red
  • Uses : Shade
  • Plant Width : Under 6 inches

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