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Fairy lilies

How to identify Fairy lilies (Zephyranthes)

Fairy lilies, also known as Rainflowers, Zephyr lilies

Fairy lilies exhibits a clump-forming habit with strap-shaped, glossy green leaves and typically reaches a height of 4 to 12 inches (10 to 30 cm). It flowers profusely with funnel-shaped blooms, each rising on a slender, leafless stalk known as a scape, which can be up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall. The blooms, which appear after rainfall, range in color from white to various shades of pink and yellow.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Fairy lilies

1

Strap-shaped glossy green leaves, 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) tall.

2

Funnel-shaped blooms on slender scapes up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, in various colors.

3

6-petaled crocus-like flowers, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm), some fragrant and nocturnally blooming.

4

Narrow, linear, glossy green leaves, 0.15-0.4 inches (4-10 mm) wide, 8-16 inches (20-40 cm) long.

5

Smooth green stem, 4-10 inches (10-25 cm) long, slender without branching, distinctive sleek appearance.

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Detailed Traits of Fairy lilies

Leaf Features

The leaves of fairy lilies are predominantly narrow, grass-like, and green, typically forming clumps. They are linear and slender, measuring about 0.15-0.4 inches (4-10 mm) in width, and often reach a length of around 8-16 inches (20-40 cm). However, some varieties display wider leaves. The surface of these leaves is smooth with a slight gloss. The veins are parallel, contributing to the linear structure and facilitating easy identification.

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Flower Features

Fairy lilies flowers are typically 6-petaled, resembling crocuses or lying flat when open. They vary in size from 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) and can bloom nocturnally. Some species produce a fragrant scent. Blooming periods differ among species, with cultivars not strictly needing the rain/drought cycles for flowering. The blooms' vibrant colors and distinct petal shapes are key identification features for plant enthusiasts.

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Stem Features

The stem of fairy lilies is smooth and green, measuring between 4 to 10 inches (10-25 cm) in length. It is typically slender and lacks prominent branching. The texture of the stem is notably smooth, giving it a sleek appearance. Its color ranges from a bright to deep green, depending on the stage of growth and environmental conditions. These characteristics make the stem of fairy lilies identifiable and distinct among similar plant species.

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Key Facts About Fairy lilies

Attributes of Fairy lilies
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 8 cm
Leaf type
Deciduous
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Scientific Classification of Fairy lilies

Family
Amaryllis
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Genus
Fairy lilies (Zephyranthes)
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