Hemerocallis Spellbinder
Contents
Description
Hemerocallis Spellbinder, also known as daylily, is a herbaceous perennial plant that produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers. It is a member of the Hemerocallidaceae family, and its botanical name is Hemerocallis. Spellbinder is one of the most popular cultivars of daylily, prized for its large, fragrant, deep purple flowers that bloom in mid to late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Hemerocallidaceae |
| Genus | Hemerocallis |
Appearance
The Hemerocallis Spellbinder plant grows up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide, with strap-like foliage that forms a clump. The flowers are 6 inches wide, with a deep purple color and a yellow throat. Each flower lasts for only one day, but the plant produces many flowers over several weeks. The leaves are dark green and arch gracefully. The plant has a moderate growth rate and can be divided every few years to maintain its vigor.
Care Guide
The Hemerocallis Spellbinder plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Hemerocallis Spellbinder:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Hemerocallis Spellbinder in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Hemerocallis Spellbinder can grow in hardiness zones 3 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hemerocallis Spellbinder plant is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and slugs. Here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl. Use neem oil to control them.
- Slugs: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. Use slug bait to control them.
Habitat
The Hemerocallis Spellbinder plant is native to Asia, but it is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes around the world. It can grow in a variety of soil and climate conditions, and it is commonly used in borders, beds, and containers. The plant is also used for cut flowers and as a food source for bees and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Hemerocallis Spellbinder?
A: Water your Hemerocallis Spellbinder regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How tall does the Hemerocallis Spellbinder plant grow?
A: The Hemerocallis Spellbinder plant grows up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide.
Q: How do I fertilize my Hemerocallis Spellbinder?
A: Fertilize your Hemerocallis Spellbinder in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What hardiness zones can the Hemerocallis Spellbinder grow in?
A: Hemerocallis Spellbinder can grow in hardiness zones 3 to 10.
Related Plants
- Hemerocallis Bonanza
- Hemerocallis Happy Returns
- Hemerocallis Stella de Oro
- Hemerocallis Pardon Me
References
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.
- Griesbach, Robert J., et al. “Genetic Diversity and Relationships of Hemerocallis Species and Cultivars.” Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, vol. 118, no. 2, 1993, pp. 252-257.
- Van Gelderen, C. J., and D. M. van Gelderen. Encyclopedia of Hydrangeas. Timber Press, 2004.
