Contents
Description
Hymenocallis Acutifolia, commonly known as the Spider Lily, is a perennial bulbous plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States, specifically in Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. The plant produces long, slender leaves that are green and strap-like. It has a unique, fragrant white flower that is shaped like a spider, giving it its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Hymenocallis |
Appearance
The Spider Lily can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has long, green, strap-like leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long and 1 inch wide. The fragrant white flower has six petals that are twisted and bent back, giving it a spider-like appearance. The petals are about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch wide. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer.
Care Guide
The Spider Lily prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It requires full sunlight to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. The plant is tolerant of drought but does not tolerate frost. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spider Lily is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites or bulb rot. Spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Bulb rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
The Spider Lily is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sunlight to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Spider Lily be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Spider Lily can be grown indoors in a pot. However, it requires bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: Does the Spider Lily require pruning?
A: No, the Spider Lily does not require pruning. However, dead leaves and flowers can be removed to improve the plant’s appearance.
Q: How often should the Spider Lily be fertilized?
A: The Spider Lily should be fertilized every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How long does it take for the Spider Lily to bloom?
A: The Spider Lily blooms in late spring or early summer and the flowers last for about 2-3 weeks.
Related Plants
- Hymenocallis Americana
- Hymenocallis Galvestonensis
- Hymenocallis Liriosme
- Hymenocallis Traubii
References
- “Hymenocallis acutifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a276.
- “Hymenocallis acutifolia (L.) J.C. Manning & Goldblatt.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60383-2.
- “Hymenocallis acutifolia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HYAC.
