Red Spider Lily: Heirloom Bulb for Fall Surprise

Lycoris radiata (Red Spider Lily)

Red spider lily's brilliant red flowers resemble an azalea's ball truss. Blooms fade quickly in hot weather, but more shade prolongs them. Depending on location in the Southeast, flowering occurs from early September to mid-October. After bloom stalks fade, foot-long strap-shaped leaves emerge and persist through winter. This heirloom bulb is easily passed along; replant offsets as leaves die in spring.

—Parker Andes, Fine Gardening #147 (October 2012), page 71

Noteworthy Characteristics

Brilliant red flowers in early fall.

Propagation

Replant offsets in spring as the leaves die.

Common Problems

Blooms fade quickly in high heat.

Quick Reference

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: Less than 6 in.
• Growth Habit: Spreads
• Growth Pace: Moderate
• Light: Part Shade Only
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Early Fall, Fall, Late Fall
• Flower Color: Red
• Foliage Color: Green
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Shade
• Type: Perennials