Red Spider Lily
Lycoris radiataUSDA | Grow Zone
6-10Outdoors all year in zones 6 to 10. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 20°F.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
- Pets
- Toxic to pets and humans
Lycoris radiata, commonly known as Red Spider Lily, is a striking perennial native to East Asia. With its vibrant red flowers and unique appearance, it adds dramatic flair to gardens and landscapes. This plant is cherished for its beauty and resilience, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 20°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Lycoris radiata prefers to be watered moderately.
Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season. In winter, reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf tips.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
It can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade may hinder blooming. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal for optimal growth.
Soil
Lycoris radiata prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of loamy soil with added sand or perlite is recommended to enhance drainage. Ensure that the pot or garden bed has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity
This plant prefers moderate humidity levels between 40-60%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidity tray filled with water near the plant. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf edges and stunted growth.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Lycoris radiata is between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 6-10, tolerating brief periods of cold down to 20°F (-6°C). In hotter climates, ensure adequate moisture and shade to prevent heat stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
In fall, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bulb health. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor flowering.
Pruning
Prune Lycoris radiata after the foliage has died back in late summer.
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to promote airflow and prevent disease. Tools needed include clean pruning shears. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage a better bloom next season.
Repotting
Repot Lycoris radiata every 2-3 years or when the bulbs outgrow their container.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant, refresh the soil, and replant at the same depth.
Propagation
Lycoris radiata can be propagated through bulb division or seeds.
For bulb division, wait until the foliage has died back in late summer, then carefully dig up the bulbs, separating them and replanting them 4-6 inches deep. For seed propagation, collect seeds after flowering and sow them in a well-draining mix, keeping them moist until germination, which may take several months.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Poor drainage and over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure the pot has drainage holes and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. If root rot occurs, remove affected bulbs and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and ensure the plant is not exposed to excessive heat. Provide shade during the hottest part of the day.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a sunnier location and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant and ensure consistent watering to prevent leaf tip burn.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, ensure the plant receives plenty of sunlight as it begins to grow. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy, and start fertilizing every 4-6 weeks.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent watering, especially in hot weather. Provide some afternoon shade if temperatures soar, and continue fertilizing monthly.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Stop fertilizing and allow the foliage to die back naturally, which helps nourish the bulbs for the next season.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant dry and in a cool location. Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, and avoid fertilizing until spring.
Toxicity & Safety
Lycoris radiata is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain lycorine, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Good to know
Why are my Red Spider Lily leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Lycoris radiata can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
How often should I water my Red Spider Lily?
Water Lycoris radiata when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
What type of soil is best for Red Spider Lily?
Lycoris radiata thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil with sand or perlite is ideal for drainage.
When should I fertilize my Red Spider Lily?
Fertilize Lycoris radiata every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, and switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer in fall.
How do I propagate Red Spider Lily?
You can propagate Lycoris radiata by bulb division or seeds. For bulb division, wait until late summer when foliage dies back, then separate and replant the bulbs.
What are the signs of root rot in Red Spider Lily?
Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul smell from the soil. Ensure proper drainage and adjust watering to prevent this issue.
Is Red Spider Lily toxic to pets?
Yes, Lycoris radiata is toxic to pets and humans. All parts of the plant contain lycorine, which can cause nausea and vomiting if ingested.
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