Contents
Description
Lycoris Straminea, commonly known as Golden Spider Lily, is a bulbous perennial native to China, Japan, and Korea. It belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, which includes other popular ornamental plants such as daffodils and snowdrops. The plant produces striking golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall, on leafless stems that can reach up to 60 cm in height. Each stem produces multiple flowers that are trumpet-shaped and have six petals. The plant has long, narrow, dark green leaves that grow up to 60 cm in length and emerge after the flowers have bloomed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Lycoris |
Appearance
The Golden Spider Lily has a unique and striking appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. The flowers are the main attraction, with their bright golden-yellow color and trumpet-like shape. Each flower can reach up to 10 cm in diameter and has six petals that are slightly curved. The flowers are borne on leafless stems that emerge from the ground in late summer or early fall. The stems can reach up to 60 cm in height and produce multiple flowers. The leaves are long and narrow, growing up to 60 cm in length. They are dark green in color and emerge after the flowers have bloomed. The plant dies back to the ground after the leaves have yellowed and withered.
Care Guide
Golden Spider Lilies are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice for gardeners. Here are some tips on how to care for your Golden Spider Lily:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the dormant season.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it is best to plant the bulbs where they will receive some shade in the afternoon.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10, but can be grown in colder zones with protection.
Common Pests & Diseases
Golden Spider Lilies are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be affected by some common problems:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use a miticide to control the infestation.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use slug and snail bait to control the infestation.
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause the flowers and leaves to rot. Remove infected plant parts and use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Habitat
The Golden Spider Lily is native to China, Japan, and Korea, where it grows in shaded areas of forests, along riverbanks, and in meadows. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. The plant is well-adapted to hot summers and cold winters, making it a popular ornamental plant in many regions.
Question and Answer
Q: When do Golden Spider Lilies bloom?
A: Golden Spider Lilies bloom in late summer or early fall, depending on the region and climate.
Q: Can Golden Spider Lilies grow in containers?
A: Yes, Golden Spider Lilies can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the bulb and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Do Golden Spider Lilies attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Golden Spider Lilies are known to attract bees and butterflies with their bright, showy flowers.
Q: How do you propagate Golden Spider Lilies?
A: Golden Spider Lilies can be propagated by division in the fall, after the leaves have yellowed and withered. Dig up the bulbs and separate the offsets, then replant them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Lycoris Radiata
- Lycoris Squamigera
- Lycoris Aurea
- Lycoris Traubii
References
- American Meadows. (n.d.). Golden Spider Lily – Lycoris Straminea. Retrieved from https://www.americanmeadows.com/flower-bulbs/other-spring-bulbs/golden-spider-lily-lycoris-straminea
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lycoris Straminea. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277522
- RHS. (n.d.). Lycoris Straminea. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7275/Lycoris-straminea/Details
