Species

Lycoris x roseaPink Lycoris

4 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Surprise Lily Lycoris

Lycoris x rosea 'Cherry Crush'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lycoris are bulbous perennials known for their unique flowering habit where leafless stems ('scapes') rise from the ground in late summer, topped with umbels of trumpet-shaped flowers. Foliage appears later, in fall or spring.

This cultivar is noted for its striking cherry-red or deep pink flowers with recurved petals, appearing on naked stems in late summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking late-summer blooms add vibrant color and attract pollinators, enhancing garden diversity.

Toxicity deters deer and rabbits, making it a low-maintenance choice.

Supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, contributing to local biodiversity.

SpeciesLycoris x roseaPink Lycoris

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose well-drained soil with organic matter.
Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep in late summer or early fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide bulbs every 3-4 years in late summer for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in the fall for late summer blooms the following year.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during active growth 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Do not disturb bulbs during dormancy
Keep away from overly wet areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright border accentLate summer garden focal pointNaturalized woodland area

Companion Plants

Daylilies Hostas Ferns Alliums Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Surprise Lily Lycoris questions

What zones can Surprise Lily Lycoris grow in?

Surprise Lily Lycoris is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Surprise Lily Lycoris deer resistant?

Yes — Surprise Lily Lycoris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Surprise Lily Lycoris bloom?

Surprise Lily Lycoris 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 Surprise Lily Lycoris need full sun?

Surprise Lily Lycoris does best in full sun (6+ hours).