Lycoris radiata is commonly known as the red spider lily, equinox flower, or naked ladies. It is a winter active bulb in the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae.
One of about 22 species, Lycoris radiata is likely the most common to adorn old homesteads throughout the Southern US.
Native throughout China, Korea, and Nepal, it was introduced into Japan and from there was brought to the United States and elsewhere.
It flowers in late summer or early autumn, often in response to heavy rainfall. The common name “hurricane lily” refers to this characteristic of blooming following a tropical event, which was the case a few weeks ago when I snapped these photos.
The foliage appears after the bloom and persists through the winter before going dormant all summer. That what’s makes them a “surprise lily” as they pop out of nowhere when you least expect it.
Lycoris was first introduced into the United States in 1854 by Captain William Roberts brought back 3 bulbs which were planted by his niece. In the 166 years since, They have become naturalized through-out the southern United States including North Carolina and Georgia, where these pics were taken.
The Japanese forms are sterile triploids, meaning the introduced plants are also sterile and reproduce only by bulb division, not seed.
What is a Triploid? It is a term that relates to chromosome count. Triploid plants have three sets of chromosomes, which means they are sterile because it’s an odd number. There are a lot of desirable characteristics that Triploids offer, including greater vigor, broad, thick, dark green leaves, and larger flowers or fruit resulting in higher yields. Also, sterility is an important aspect of plant breeding and crop improvement.
The bulbs of Lycoris are poisonous, which means animals stay away! In Japan they are planted around rice paddies and houses to keep pests and mice out.
Now is a great time to plant Lycoris bulbs! I have them growing in sun- shade, wet- dry. Thanks to The Southern Bulb Company I have more to add to my collection.
Check out this YouTube video for more instructions on how and where to plant!