Spider Lily
IOverview
Overview
The Spider Lily (Lycoris sanguinea), a member of the Amaryllidaceae family, is a bulbous plant native to Japan and Korea. Thriving in moist, light (sandy) soils under full sun, this plant is known for its ornamental value, featuring distinctive spider-like flowers with long, drooping petals that emerge from late summer into early autumn. The Spider Lily's roots are edible and can be prepared in various ways, typically by cooking or drying before consumption. This hardy species grows to a height of about 0.5 meters and is well-suited for gardens or naturalized areas where it adds a striking display of color. While not medicinal, the Spider Lily is valued for its culinary uses and its ability to enhance landscapes in temperate regions, thriving in hardiness zones 5-9.
What is Spider Lily?
The Spider Lily (Lycoris sanguinea), a member of the Amaryllidaceae family, is a bulbous plant native to Japan and Korea.
VCultivation
Cultivation
How to grow Spider Lily for the first time
Start with Spider Lilies to gain confidence in your gardening skills.
- 1
What you'll need
Spider Lily bulbs, a small trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late summer or early fall for spring blooms.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs about 10 cm deep, spacing them 15-20 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the bulbs; keep soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water when the foliage starts to yellow in late spring or early summer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
No need for harvesting; simply remove spent flowers and deadhead as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting sun exposure, not providing enough drainage, and forgetting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedIXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Amaryllidaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
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