Sea Daffodil (Pancratium maritimum)

Sea Daffodil: A Coastal Survivor

The Sea Daffodil (Pancratium maritimum), also called Sand Lily, is a remarkable bulbous perennial native to Mediterranean coastal sand dunes. It produces umbels of 5-15 large, white, spider-like flowers with long, narrow petals and a prominent staminal cup, intensely fragrant, especially at night. The glaucous, strap-shaped leaves are evergreen in mild climates. It blooms in late summer.

Extreme Adaptation

It is adapted to extreme conditions: salt spray, sand burial, drought, and intense sun. In cultivation, provide sharply drained, sandy soil, full sun, and minimal water once established. Not frost-hardy below zone 8; grow in containers in cold climates. The fragrance and coastal toughness make it a unique plant for seaside gardens or xeric collections.

Taxonomy

• Family: Amaryllidaceae
• Genus: Pancratium
• Species: maritimum