Fly Poison
Amianthium muscitoxicum
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Pl. C275 — Amianthium muscitoxicum
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IOverview
Overview
Fly Poison, scientifically known as Amianthium muscitoxicum, is a member of the Lily family and is native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Virginia. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure, making it suitable for gardens with similar conditions. Known for its edible bulb, Fly Poison has been utilized by local communities. Its distinctive feature includes small, white flowers that emerge in spring, followed by clusters of green berries that eventually turn black. While primarily a native plant, it is also cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance and adaptability.
Quick answers
What is Fly Poison?
Fly Poison, scientifically known as Amianthium muscitoxicum, is a member of the Lily family and is native to the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Virginia. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure, making it suitable for gardens with similar conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Fly Poison thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in zones 4-8, making it hardy in temperate regions. The plant reaches a height of about 1.2 meters and can be propagated through its edible bulb. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Fly Poison for the first time
8steps
Start with Fly Poison as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or bulb, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed for your local conditions.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-10 cm deep in well-prepared soil, spacing them about 20 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain a neat appearance, but do not harvest bulbs as they are used for propagation.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, and neglecting to provide enough sunlight or shade as needed.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Bulb
Edible uses: The bulb of the Fly Poison (Amianthium muscitoxicum) is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often eaten raw or cooked, adding a mild flavor to dishes. The bulbs can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Pest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
20 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
20 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 20 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c2752009-765b-4572-990c-cd9a90277601
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