Landscaping with a Spider Lily

Natural Habitat

• Spider lilies have been found growing in ravines, ditches and wet areas. They grow along the banks of streams, in marshes and meadows, too. They don’t mind marshy areas, but they prefer prepared beds with plenty of composted materials. Choose sites for them that get sun or partial shade. Bury the bulbs so the tips are one inch deep and space them 12 to 24 inches apart. They prefer to be kept moist, especially when they are in bloom. In late summer cut the foliage back after it turns brown.

Landscape Planting

• Spider lilies are perfect for placing next to water features in landscapes. They give ponds, pools and fountains tropical feels and exotic looks. Planting companions include banana plants, elephant ears and ferns, and other tropical-style plants. Spider lilies contrast nicely with bold purples and reds. Gardeners grow them in drifts to separate portions of a lawn or garden or to define borders in colorful perennial gardens. Consider placing spider lilies near plants that deer browse. Deer do not eat spider lilies; perhaps the fragrance deters them.

Natural Landscapes

• Spider lilies work well for gardeners who prefer natural-looking landscaped areas, whether a garden or lawn. Lilies help naturalize less-formal settings. To naturalize a setting, toss a bunch of bulbs and plant them where they land, which gives the lilies a scattered affect. Mix in some daffodils and Spanish squills to complete the effect. Keep in mind that spider lilies planted in a southern exposure bloom earlier than those planted in a northern one.

Digging Bulbs

• Flowering bulbs sometimes need to be dug up for thinning or moving to a different location. Wait until after the foliage dies back and dig them up before the first frost. Hymenocallis bulbs have heavy roots attached, so care must be taken to ensure they are not cut during the digging process. Take care not to bruise or damage the bulb. Cuts and bruises allow disease and pests easy access, and they will damage a bulb during storage. Store the bulbs upside down in vermiculite or sand until you are ready to plant them again.