The Story
Plant Bio
Lycoris sprengeri is a bulbous perennial from the amaryllis family. Strap-like leaves emerge in spring and die back by early summer. In late summer, naked scapes rise from the ground, topped with umbels of trumpet-shaped, pink flowers tipped with electric blue.
Distinctive for its unique flower coloration, featuring soft pink petals that are brushed with iridescent, electric blue at the tips, creating a 'tie-dye' effect. The flowers appear on leafless stems, a characteristic trait of 'surprise lilies'.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
16 inches
Width
9 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
China
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Plant bulbs in late summer or early fall in well-drained soil.
- Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep and space 4-6 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Ensure partial shade for optimal growth.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in well-drained soil with partial shade for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Allow foliage to die back naturally
Don't
- Overwater to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Plant in poorly drained soil ❌
- Expose bulbs to full sun in hot climates ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Electric Blue Spider Lily questions
What zones can Electric Blue Spider Lily grow in?
Electric Blue Spider Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Electric Blue Spider Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Electric Blue Spider Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Electric Blue Spider Lily bloom?
Electric Blue Spider Lily typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Electric Blue Spider Lily need full sun?
Electric Blue Spider Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Electric Blue Spider Lily drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Electric Blue Spider Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Lycoris to compare
Lycoris x rosea Glenn Dale Gem
Lycoris x rosea 'Glenn Dale Gem'
Surprise Lily Lycoris
Lycoris x rosea 'Cherry Crush'
Pink Lycoris
Lycoris x rosea
Pink Panther Surprise Lily
Lycoris x rosea 'Pink Panther'
Surprise Lily
Lycoris squamigera
Lycoris x traubiata Buttermint
Lycoris x traubiata 'Buttermint'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Electric Blue Spider Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.