Foxtail Lily
Eremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusfam. Asparagaceae
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Pl. 8AB0 — Eremurus stenophyllus aurantiacus
Eremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacusEremurus stenophyllus aurantiacus
IOverview
Overview
Foxtail Lily (Eremurus stenophyllus aurantiacus) is a striking perennial native to the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Kirgizstan, Pakistan, Tadzhikistan, and Uzbekistan. Known for its ornamental value, this plant features tall spikes of orange flowers that resemble fox tails, hence its name. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy) and medium soils. The plant is hardy in zones 5-10 and reaches a height of about 1.5 meters. Interestingly, the leaves are edible, adding a unique culinary twist to this already distinctive species.
Quick answers
What is Foxtail Lily?
Foxtail Lily (Eremurus stenophyllus aurantiacus) is a striking perennial native to the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Kirgizstan, Pakistan, Tadzhikistan, and Uzbekistan. Known for its ornamental value, this plant features tall spikes of orange flowers that resemble fox tails, hence its name.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Foxtail Lily thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well when the soil remains moist. This perennial requires little water once established and grows to a height of 1.5 meters. Hardy in zones 5-10, it is suitable for temperate regions. Propagate through division of mature clumps in early spring or by seed. The leaves are edible, making this plant both ornamental and useful in the garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Foxtail Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with Foxtail Lily to gain experience in growing perennials.
- 1
What you'll need
A shovel, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy) and medium textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant corms 10-15 cm deep, spaced about 30 cm apart in the garden bed or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rot. Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Fertilize lightly in early spring with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage after flowering to maintain plant health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting sun exposure, not providing enough drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The Foxtail Lily's leaves are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild, slightly sweet flavor. Skip the stems as they are not typically consumed.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)AfghanistanPakistanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan, Tadzhikistan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asparagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asparagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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