bulb corm tuber

Golden Spider Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Lycoris chinensis, commonly known as the golden spider lily, is known for its striking yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers with recurved petals that appear suddenly in late summer after the foliage has died back.

Unlike many other lilies, the flowers of Lycoris chinensis emerge in late summer, often without foliage, making it a unique addition to late-season gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Lycoris chinensis offers elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers in late summer, adding vibrant color to shaded and woodland gardens.

Its bulbs are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance once established.

Provides early nectar sources for pollinators and enhances biodiversity in shaded garden areas.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a well-drained, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in the soil in late summer or early fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Mist bulbs lightly during the growing season to maintain moisture.
Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming for bulb health.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in a shaded area with protection from harsh afternoon sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during active growth 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t disturb bulbs during dormancy
Never plant in poorly drained soil
Skip fertilizing after flowering

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

Shaded woodland garden with delicate, arching foliageMoist border with contrast foliageNaturalized area with early spring blooms

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes CamassiaTrilliums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Golden Spider Lily questions

What zones can Golden Spider Lily grow in?

Golden Spider Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Golden Spider Lily deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Golden Spider Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Golden Spider Lily bloom?

Golden Spider Lily typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Golden Spider Lily need full sun?

Golden Spider Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Golden Spider Lily drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Golden Spider Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.