Spider lily (Hymenocallis graminifolia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Spider lily on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Spider lily
Hymenocallis graminifolia, commonly known as the spider lily, is a perennial bulbous plant from the Amaryllidaceae family, valued for its delicate white flowers with long, narrow petals resembling spider legs. Its leaves are slender and elongated, bright green, giving it an elegant and graceful appearance. It is ideal for garden borders, patio pots, or as a focal plant in tropical or Mediterranean-style gardens.
Native range
Southeastern United States
Care tips
It prefers full sun or light partial shade for optimal flowering. The soil should be well-drained, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral; a flowering plant mix or all-purpose soil with perlite is suitable. Water regularly during the growing and flowering period, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and reduce watering in winter when the plant goes dormant. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to bulb rot.
How to save a dying Spider lily
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or soft leaves, stem rot at base, no flowering.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves, check roots (cut if soft), move to bright indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causes bulb rot. Insufficient light also weakens it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb isn't fully rotten. Act quickly with good drainage.