Surprise Lily Lycoris

Naked lilies or surprise lilies are perennial bulbs in the amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae). They are native to China, SE Asia, Korea, and Japan. There are 25 species, but some authorities recognize fewer species. The genus name, Lycoris, refers to the Roman mistress of Mark Antony. The plants are usually called “naked lady” or “surprise lily” because the naked flower stalks suddenly emerge from the soil even before the leaves. The name “red spider lily” (Lycoris radiata) refers to the stamens that look like spider legs. Along the coast, they are called “hurricane lilies” because they bloom during hurricane season. 

Naked lilies tolerate full sun but grow best in part sun with afternoon shade. They can tolerate extreme drought but flourish with regular watering. The soil should be dry during the summer dormant period. They prefer rich, organic soil but can grow in poor soil. No fertilization is required. They generate bulb offshoots and will naturally spread in open ground. They prefer to be left undisturbed. The bulb usually does not bloom the first year after planting. If planted too deep, they may take longer to bloom. The plant size and planting depth depend on the species. Each bulb can produce up to five inflorescences, but bulbs might not bloom each year. The resurrection lily (L. squamigera) is the hardiest and prefers a chilling period with winter mulch. In colder climates, you should plant the red spider lily species in a sheltered area to protect the foliage from winter freezing. Check the plant tags for the botanical name and attributes to ensure you are buying the species you want. 

The plants are easy to grow and durable as evidenced by their presence found around old southern houses. After blooming in late summer or early fall, the strap-like foliage appears. The leaves remain green through winter for some species, while in other species, the leaves do not emerge until spring. The toxic alkaloid, lycorine, protects the plant from deer and rabbits. The flowers make good cut flowers. The resurrection lily species initially have an unpleasant odor for 12 hours. The red spider lily and resurrection lily are the species most commercially available, but more species, hybrids and cultivars are available from specialist nurseries.

The naked lilies can be planted in a perennial border and the edge of woodlands. The naked lilies can be grown in containers large enough to accommodate their root system. To hide the tall, spent flower stalks in the garden, you can plant annuals or groundcover near their base or scatter them among perennials. Companion plants include daylilies, tall phlox, coneflower, hosta, and black-eyed Susan.

Additional Lycoris images at Juniper Level Botanical Gardens

• Lycoris (Surprise Lily, Hurricane Lily)

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: They are usually pest-free, but they can fall prey to narcissus bulb fly. Some gardeners have reported damage by lubber grasshoppers. Occasionally, deer may eat the flowers.