Rain lily - Zephyranthes candida (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Rain lily

Also known as: White fairy lily, White zephyr lily, Fairy lily

The Zephyranthes candida is a rain lily that can be found in South America as well as in parts of Africa, Asia, Europe and North America where it has been naturalized. Its stunning white flowers bud late in August. They're called rain lily because they often flower after heavy rains.

Scientific classification

Species

Rain lily (Zephyranthes candida)

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

20 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Rain lily

Distribution of Rain lily

Distribution Map

Rain lily is originally native to parts of South America, specifically regions within the continent that align with modern southern cone areas. It has been introduced and naturalized in various countries across Asia, including island nations, in addition to regions in East Asia, Mexico, and some areas of South Africa. Rain lily is also cultivated, which has expanded its range beyond its native and introduced territories.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Along rivers, marshes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Due to the successional flowering scheme, rain lily looks best when planted in groups or swathes, especially along garden paths. It can be used in the front rows of flower borders, and in rock gardens. It is also suitable for outdoor container planting on patios and porches. Furthermore, rain lily can create a highly attractive groundcover that will thrive as a deciduous tree underplanting.

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Toxicity

Rain lily poses severe toxicity risk to humans, cats, and dogs upon ingestion due to potent alkaloids like pretazettine, carinatine, lycorine, galantamine, and haemanthamine. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and cardiovascular issues. Immediate medical attention is crucial for affected individuals or pets.

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Quickly Identify Rain lily

Dense clump of rush-like evergreen leaves, up to 1 foot tall (30 cm) and 2 feet wide (60 cm).

Distinctive white tubular flowers with 6 petals and yellow stamens, blooming at same height as leaves.

Elegant silvery white flowers, 1-2 inches across (2.5-5 cm), with star-like shape and orange stamens.

Bright green grass-like leaves, 8-12 inches long (20-30 cm), slender with linear shape and parallel venation.

Upright grass-like stems, bright green, 1-2 millimeters in diameter (0.04-0.08 inches), non-branching.

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Care Guide for Rain lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Rain lily thrives in humid subtropical regions, requiring consistent moisture but is moderately drought-tolerant. It prefers weekly watering to maintain even moisture. Cultivated outdoors, rain lily exhibits robust growth when adequately watered during its active growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, rain lily requires balanced fertilizers in spring and summer, with high phosphorus to promote blooming. Apply diluted solutions every 2-3 weeks, reducing frequency in winter. Regular feeding boosts vigor and root health, while avoiding over-fertilization prevents root burn. Use gloves and measure accurately.

Pruning: Rain lily produces fragrant, lily-like flowers from bulbs. Prune spent flowers and yellowing leaves in early to late spring to promote growth and health. Regularly clear dead material to prevent disease and boost vigor, ensuring vibrant blooms and reducing fungal risks.

Propagation: Rain lily can be effectively propagated through division after blooming, ensuring each section retains a growing point. This method is favored for expanding gardens while maintaining bulb health for successful replanting and vigorous growth.

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