Hymenocallis

Hymenocallis, also known as Spider Lily, is a group of tender bulbs that are natives of tropical America, Peru, Africa and the United States. These pretty plants are suitable for growing on the edge of your water garden. H. liriosme (Water Spider Lily) is a native of the southern U.S. from Louisiana west to Texas. This plant produces long, strap-like, deeply grooved leaves that grow up to 18 inches in length. From March to May, strong stems grow up and produce clusters of white, spidery flowers. The arching petals are delicate and slender and the filaments are attached by a fine, web-like tissue into a cup-shape. This variety may be planted in up to 6 inches of water.

Pot Cultivation

These plants may be grown outside in mild climates, in soil with plenty of decayed organic matter. They need a sunny location and an abundance of water. They should be mulched with compost or leaf mold. In cold climates, they may be grown indoors in two parts sandy loam, one part leaf mold and one part well-decayed manure to which sand has been liberally added. The Water Spider Lily may be planted in 2-gallon containers of rich soil and set in up to 6 inches of water. They can live in sun or partial shade. They also need a warm climate and should be wintered indoors in cool regions.

Propagation

The clumps may be divided after blooming or seeds may be sown.

H. Amancaes

VARIETIES

• H. liriosme (Water Spider Lily);
• H. calathina (Ismene or Basket Flower);
• H. caribaea & var. Variegata;
• H. littoralis;
• H. Horsmannii;
• H. macrostephana;
• H. Amancaes;
• H. calathina & var. Advance;
• H. Olympia;
• H. Harrisiana;
• H. galvestonensis;
• H. Macleana. Hybrids - festalis; Sulphur Queen.