Zephyr lily (Zephyranthes pulchella)
Care, watering, light and tips for Zephyr lily on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Zephyr lily
Zephyranthes pulchella, commonly known as rain lily, is a small perennial bulbous plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. It produces solitary, funnel-shaped flowers, typically bright yellow, which emerge rapidly after rainfall, creating a vibrant display. It is ideal for rock gardens, path borders, or pots, adding a spontaneous splash of color to the garden.
Native range
Mexico and southern Texas (United States)
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering, although it tolerates some partial shade. Watering should be moderate during the growing and flowering season, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings; it is crucial to reduce it drastically during the dormancy period. It prefers well-drained, sandy, and slightly acidic to neutral soil. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to bulb rot.
How to save a dying Zephyr lily
- Warning signs
- Yellow or soft leaves, no blooms, soft or moldy bulbs.
- First aid
- Remove bulb, inspect roots, trim damaged parts, repot in well-draining soil, avoid waterlogging.
- What kills it
- Overwatering rotting the bulb, poor drainage, not respecting dormancy.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb isn't completely rotted. Act quickly at first signs of trouble.