Cardiocrinum Giganteum

Description

Cardiocrinum Giganteum, commonly known as the Giant Himalayan Lily or the Himalayan Cardiocrinum, is a flowering plant native to the Himalayas in Nepal, Bhutan, and India. It belongs to the family Liliaceae and is a monocotyledonous perennial herb that can grow up to 3 meters tall. It produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that can grow up to 30 cm long and 15 cm wide. The flowers are highly fragrant and bloom in the summer months.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cardiocrinum Giganteum has large, glossy green leaves that can grow up to 90 cm long and 30 cm wide. The leaves are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant and are alternate along the stem. The stem itself is thick and rigid, and can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. The flowers of Cardiocrinum Giganteum are its most distinctive feature, and can grow up to 30 cm long and 15 cm wide. They are white or cream-colored, with a purple throat and yellow anthers. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Cardiocrinum Giganteum requires specific care to thrive. Here are some guidelines:

• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Stop fertilizing when the plant goes dormant in the fall.
• Soil: Cardiocrinum Giganteum prefers well-draining, rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add organic matter such as compost or leaf mold to improve soil quality.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, with about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Cardiocrinum Giganteum is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cardiocrinum Giganteum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but occasionally can be affected by:

• Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use bait traps or copper tape to deter them.
• Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Fungal diseases: These can cause leaf spots, wilting, and root rot. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases.

Habitat

Cardiocrinum Giganteum is native to the Himalayan Mountains, where it grows in moist, shady areas such as forests and riverbanks. It prefers cool, damp environments with well-draining soil.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cardiocrinum Giganteum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, but it requires a large container and frequent watering.

Q: Can Cardiocrinum Giganteum be propagated by division?
A: Yes, it can be divided in the fall when it goes dormant.

Q: Can Cardiocrinum Giganteum be grown from seed?
A: Yes, but it can take several years to bloom.

Q: Does Cardiocrinum Giganteum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

• Cardiocrinum Cordatum
• Cardiocrinum Himalaicense
• Cardiocrinum Cathayanum
• Cardiocrinum Giganteum Subsp. Yunnanense

References

• “Cardiocrinum Giganteum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a923.
• “Cardiocrinum Giganteum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/3235/Cardiocrinum-giganteum/Details.
• “Cardiocrinum Giganteum.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/cardiocrinum-giganteum.