Hymenocallis
( hye - men - oh - KAL - iss )
At-A-Glance InformationThese interesting perennial flowers grow from bulbs and need full sun to partial shade and regular waterings during their growth and bloom periods. Take care when planting these around animals and children, as the bulbs are poisonous if ingested. Foliage is strap-like and green, and the thick flower stems carry a few fragrant blooms each. Flowers have a funnel shaped inner segment and spidery, longer outer segments. They are native to the southern United States and South America.
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Hymenocallis Species and Varietals
Hymenocallis narcissiflora (Ismene calathina) (Basket Flower, Peruvian Daffodil) This native of the Andes Mountains is the most commonly grown species in the genus, and has white flowers with green stripes held in clusters of 2-5. Variety 'Advance' has pure white flowers with faint green throat markings. |
Caring for Hymenocallis
Hymenocallis prefers rich, well draining soil. Plant bulbs in late fall or early winter if you are in a frost-free, warm-winter area. Otherwise, wait until danger of frost has passed to plant the bulbs. Set bulb tips an inch below the soil surface spaced a foot apart. If given adequate water, foliage will survive all summer long and then die back in fall. After leaves have yellowed, dig up bulbs and dry them with the roots facing up. Store in open trays in a cool, dark place until they are ready to be planted again the next season.
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 369, Hymenocallis
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