surprise lily naked lady
Lycoris squamigera
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan and China
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Lycoris squamigera, commonly known as surprise lily or magic lily, is known for its striking flowers that emerge in late summer from an underground bulb. This species is unique for its cloak of foliage appearing in spring, which dies back by summer, followed by the unexpected flowering devoid of leaves.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil in late summer.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around bulbs.
- Mist cuttings during the growing season for best root development.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps after foliage dies back in late summer or early fall.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in a sunny location with loose, well-draining soil for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the growing season 💧
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Don't plant too deeply, as it hampers blooming
- Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
surprise lily naked lady questions
What zones can surprise lily naked lady grow in?
surprise lily naked lady is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. 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 naked lady deer resistant?
Yes — surprise lily naked lady is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does surprise lily naked lady bloom?
surprise lily naked lady 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 surprise lily naked lady need full sun?
surprise lily naked lady does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is surprise lily naked lady drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), surprise lily naked lady 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'
Pink Lycoris
Lycoris x rosea
Surprise Lily Lycoris
Lycoris x rosea 'Cherry Crush'
Surprise Lily
Lycoris x squamigera
Pink Panther Surprise Lily
Lycoris x rosea 'Pink Panther'
Lycoris longituba Pink Spider Lily
Lycoris longituba
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow surprise lily naked lady 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.
