Eremurus
( ehr - em - MEW - rus )
At-A-Glance InformationEremurus, also called Foxtail Lily or Desert Candle, is a perennial flowering plant that grows from tuberous roots. They need full sun and regular water during their growth and bloom periods for best performance. They are native to Western and Central Asia and produce 3-9 foot tall spikes of blooms in late spring and early summer. These striking plants are wonderful for the backs of large borders, against walls or fences, and are fantastic in arrangements. Flowers come in pink, white, and yellow, and open from the base of the inflorescence upwards.
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Eremurus Species and Varietals
The genus Eremurus is a member of the plant family Asphodelaceae and includes over 50 species. Foxtail lilies grow best in zones 2-10, 14-16 and 18-21. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Eremurus x isabellinus This is a well-known species of Foxtail Lily, and has two main groups of hybrid varieties: Shelford hybrids (pictured) grow 4-5 feet tall and have mixed-color blossoms in white, yellow, pink and orange, and the Ruiter hybrids grow to 3-6 feet tall; featuring bright flower colors ('Cleopatra' has orange-red blooms). This hybrid is a cross between species Eremurus stenophyllus and Eremurus olgae. |
Eremurus robustus (Foxtail Lily, Giant Desert Candle) Reaching 6-9 feet tall, this species blooms in light pink with brown markings. Green leaves can reach 2 feet in length. These plants are often used as ornamentals in gardens. The specific epithet robustus refers to the strength of the flowering stem despite is height (it is the largest in the genus). Giant Desert Candle is native to central Asia. |
Caring for Eremurus
Foxtail Lilies' roots need to be handled with care; they tend to rot away when bruised or broken. They should be planted in rich, well-draining soil, and root crowns should be spaced 2-4 feet apart, buried about 4-6 inches deep if you live in a cooler climate. If you live in a warmer climate, set them just under the soil surface. When leaves die and the plant enters dormancy, mark the spot to ensure the roots are not disturbed or damaged. Do not let soil dry out during dormancy, and provide mulch in cold-winter areas to ensure the roots will survive the cooler temperatures.
To cut for vases, harvest when the lowest flowers just start to open.
To cut for vases, harvest when the lowest flowers just start to open.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 304, Eremurus (Foxtail Lily)
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