Swamp Lily Crinum

Crinum lilies are summer-flowering bulbs in the Amaryllidaceae (amaryllis) family. They have an erect growth habit and reach 2 to 4 feet tall and wide. They are native to the tropics and subtropics of Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas and are sometimes called cemetery plants because, in past centuries, they were often used in cemeteries.  

Plant crinum lilies in April through late October. These bulbs are cold hardy to 25 degrees F. They thrive in sunny locations, provided the soil is moist, or in partial shade. Protect from strong wind. Newly planted crinums need to settle in for a season or two before they begin blooming freely. They do not like to be disturbed. After the first flowering season, apply a high-phosphorus fertilizer in mid-May each year. Once established they are fairly drought tolerant but may need additional moisture during particularly dry conditions while the plant is in flower. After four to five years, remove the offsets and replant to enlarge your collection or to share with a gardening friend.

Division is an excellent form of propagation. Divided plants will flower more quickly than when planting from offshoot bulbs. Division should be accomplished in the winter months when the plant is not actively growing, but this task can be quite challenging as the bulbs can get quite large as the plants mature.  

Crinum lilies have graced Southern landscapes for years. They lend a bit of nostalgia and add a delightful tropical touch to gardens. Their foliage is lustrous and statuesque, providing a pleasing contrast to finer-textured ornamentals.

Crinums have many uses in the landscape. Mass planted or in small groups their fragrant, showy blooms make a statement in borders or woodland, butterfly, and cutting gardens. They are moderately salt tolerant, which is a benefit when planted in coastal areas. Crinums grown in containers are an accent wherever you need one; move the container indoors for the winter if you live in a colder climate.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Crinums can be affected by red blotch fungus or crinum mosaic potyvirus. Red blotch fungus will cause red spots on the leaves, while mosaic potyvirus will cause yellow streaks. Spider mites and caterpillars are an occasional pest issue as well as the Eastern lubber grasshopper. Causes low toxicity if eaten.