Hemerocallis bulbiferum
Hemerocallis bulbiferumfam. Asclepiadaceae
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Pl. A470 — Hemerocallis bulbiferum
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IOverview
Overview
Hemerocallis bulbiferum, commonly known as the bulbiferous daylily, is a perennial forb/herb native to regions in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and the Nansei-shoto islands. This plant is valued for its edible parts, including flowers, leaves, and shoots, making it a versatile addition to gardens and culinary dishes. It thrives in various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—and prefers a pH range of 4.8 to 8. One distinctive feature of this plant is its light requirement; it has an energy level rating of 8 out of 10, indicating it can tolerate both dry and moist conditions.
Quick answers
What is Hemerocallis bulbiferum?
Hemerocallis bulbiferum, commonly known as the bulbiferous daylily, is a perennial forb/herb native to regions in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and the Nansei-shoto islands. This plant is valued for its edible parts, including flowers, leaves, and shoots, making it a versatile addition to gardens and culinary dishes.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hemerocallis bulbiferum thrives in light to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils that are medium or heavy with a pH between 4.8 and 8. It is hardy in temperate regions but can tolerate various moisture levels, from dry to moist conditions. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist during the growing season. Propagate through division of rhizomes in spring or fall. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, and shoots for culinary use.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Soil pH
4.8–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Hemerocallis bulbiferum for the first time
8steps
Start with Hemerocallis bulbiferum by planting it in a well-prepared soil and giving it the right care, making your first gardening experience smooth.
- 1
What you'll need
A Hemerocallis bulbiferum plant or bulbs, a trowel, compost, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is cool but not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy. Ensure the pH is between 4.8 and 8.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs about 2-3 inches deep and 6-10 inches apart in a sunny spot with moist soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plants regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize once a year in early spring with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's appearance. Remove any yellowing leaves for better health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight, and using incorrect fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The Hemerocallis bulbiferum is edible with its flowers, leaves, and shoots being consumed. The flowers are often eaten raw or used in salads for their mild flavor. Leaves can be cooked like spinach, while young shoots are typically steamed or stir-fried to enhance their tender texture.
Other uses:Weaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 23 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 23 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 7 native· 23 introduced
Europe6 regions
introduced (6)AustriaBelgiumBulgariaFranceGermanyRussia
Asia7 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwan
introduced (3)BangladeshGeorgiaIndia
Americas5 regions
introduced (5)Costa RicaCubaDominican RepublicHaitiHonduras
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
introduced:East Himalaya, Czechoslovakia, Delaware, District of Columbia, Connecticut, Florida, Colorado, Arkansas, Alabama
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 (Asclepiadaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asclepiadaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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