The Story
Plant Bio
Hymenocallis coronaria, commonly known as the spider lily, is a perennial bulbous plant distinguished by its strap-shaped leaves and striking, white, spider-like flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer.
It is a rare aquatic plant found primarily in rocky shoals of rivers in the southeastern US, anchoring itself in cracks in the bedrock. Its fragrant flowers are a spectacular sight.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
High, requires consistently wet soil or shallow water
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeastern US
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist, especially during dry spells.
- Place in full sun for best flowering results.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
- Protect from frost in colder zones by mulching or digging up bulbs.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot and enjoy vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during growing season 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater to avoid bulb rot ❌
- Don't disturb bulbs during flowering
- Avoid heavy clay soil without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Spider Lily questions
What zones can Spider Lily grow in?
Spider Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Spider Lily deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Spider Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Spider Lily bloom?
Spider Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Spider Lily need full sun?
Spider Lily does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Hymenocallis to compare
Spring Spiderlily
Hymenocallis liriosme
Rayville Spider Lily
Hymenocallis liriosme 'Rayville'
Caribbean Spider Lily Tropical Giant
Hymenocallis caribaea 'Tropical Giant'
Dwarf Spider Lily
Hymenocallis pygmaea 'Carolina Creeper'
Eulalie's Spider Lily
Hymenocallis eulae
Traub's Spider Lily
Hymenocallis traubii
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow 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.