Lycoris

( lye - KOR - iss )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of perennial flowering plants, commonly called Spider Lily, Cluster Amaryllis, or Hurricane Lily, grows from bulbs and needs full sun and regular waterings during growing and blooming periods. They are native to China and Japan, and produce strappy leaves in fall or spring, followed by flower stalks supporting a cluster of spidery-looking blooms.

Lycoris Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Spider Lily vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.


Lycoris aurea (Nerine aurea) (Golden Spider Lily)
This species grows best in zones 16, 17, 19-24 and H1. It produces yellow flowers on stems that reach 2 feet tall. The flowers have stamens that are just slightly protruding.

Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily, Red Magic Lily, Corpse Flower, Equinox Flower)
Best when grown in zones 4-9, 12-24 and H1, this is a very commonly-grown species with stems 1.5 feet tall topped with coral red flowers that have a golden sparkle to them. Stamens are very prominent in this species. Variety 'Alba' has white blossoms.

Lycoris sanguinea
This species has bright red to orange red blossoms and its stamens do not protrude. Grows best in zones 4-24, with stems up to 2 feet tall.

​Lycoris sprengeri
This species grows best in zones 4-24 and has fragrant, purple-pink flowers that top 2 foot tall stems.

​Lycoris squamigera (Amaryllis hallii) (Resurrection Lily, Surprise Lily)
This species grows best in zones 2-24 and has fragrant, lilac-pink blossoms atop 2 foot tall stems. Stamens in this species' flowers do not protrude. This species is native to China and Korea.

Caring for Name

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: Lycoris (plant)
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 424, Lycoris
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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