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Description
Zephyranthes Candida, also known as White Rain Lily, is a bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to South America, but it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in other regions of the world due to its attractive white flowers and easy-to-grow nature.The plant produces narrow, grass-like leaves that are up to 30 cm long and 0.5 cm wide. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have six white petals that are up to 5 cm long. They bloom in late summer or early fall, and each flower lasts for 2-3 days. The plant can grow up to 30 cm tall and 15 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Zephyranthes |
Appearance
Zephyranthes Candida has a neat and graceful appearance, making it an ideal plant for borders, rock gardens, and containers. The plant has narrow, grass-like leaves that are bright green and grow in clumps. The leaves are usually 30 cm long and 0.5 cm wide.The plant produces trumpet-shaped flowers that are around 5 cm long and have six white petals. The flowers usually bloom in late summer or early fall and last for 2-3 days. They grow on long, slender stalks that are up to 30 cm tall. The flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Zephyranthes Candida is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your White Rain Lily:Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate drought. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it doesn’t like wet or waterlogged soil.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun, but it doesn’t like hot, dry weather.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zephyranthes Candida is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases like leaf spot, rust, and bulb rot. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. The plant can also be attacked by pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Zephyranthes Candida is native to Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, where it grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it doesn’t like extreme heat or cold.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Zephyranthes Candida be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, sunny spot.Q: How often should I water my White Rain Lily?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Q: Can Zephyranthes Candida be grown from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seed, but it is easier to propagate it by dividing the bulbs.Q: How tall does Zephyranthes Candida grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 30 cm tall and 15 cm wide.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Zephyranthes Candida:
- Zephyranthes carinata
- Zephyranthes citrina
- Zephyranthes grandiflora
- Zephyranthes rosea
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Zephyranthes candida. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a199
- RHS. (n.d.). Zephyranthes candida. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12303/zephyranthes-candida/details
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Rain Lilies. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP330
