How to identify Crinum (Crinum)

Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Crinum (Crinum)

Crinum exhibits a prominent erect stance, growing to a height of 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm) and spreading equally wide. Its structure is bulbous, from which strap-like, green leaves unfurl. During the summer, it produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers atop sturdy stems that rise above the foliage, making it a striking addition to any planting area.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Crinum

Height: 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm), spreading equally wide.

Trumpet-shaped flowers on sturdy stems rise above foliage.

Lily-like flowers 4 inches (10 cm) wide and long, in various shapes and colors.

Coarse, sword-like leaves in spiral arrangement, 2 to 5 feet (60 to 150 cm) long.

Sturdy, unbranched stem (scape) around 2 feet (60 cm) tall and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.

Detailed Traits of Crinum

Leaf Features

The leaves of crinum are coarse and sword-like, forming a dense basal rosette. Each leaf is a vibrant green, growing in a spiral arrangement. The leaves are typically long and narrow, measuring between 2 to 5 feet (60 to 150 cm) in length and 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in width. They have a smooth texture with prominent midribs and parallel venation. The edges of the leaves are slightly wavy, contributing to their distinctive appearance.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Crinum flowers are lily-like, ranging from 4 inches (10 cm) wide to 4 inches (10 cm) long. They exhibit a variety of shapes, from bell-shaped to spider-like forms. The blossoms appear in clusters during the summer on leafless stalks, enhancing their visual prominence. Petal arrangements are typically elegant, often with six petals radiating symmetrically. Colors vary but frequently include shades of white, pink, and red. These flowers are also known for their sweet, fragrant scent, further contributing to their allure during the blooming season.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of crinum, known as a scape, is both sturdy and rigid, providing robust support for the plant. Typically, the scape is smooth in texture and unbranched, exhibiting a green to occasionally brownish hue. It measures around 2 feet (60 cm) in height and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The scape’s firm and upright structure is a distinguishing feature, making it easily identifiable and pivotal for the plant's stability and growth.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

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