Species

2 other cultivars

perennial

Adam's August Red Spider Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Lycoris radiata, commonly known as the Red Spider Lily, is a bulbous perennial with arching, strap-like leaves that emerge in autumn, followed by striking clusters of vivid red, spider-like flowers that appear before the foliage.

Cultivar 'Adam's August' is distinguished by its exceptionally vibrant and densely packed red flowers, blooming late in the season, creating a dramatic display that enhances late-summer gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid red flowers provide striking color in late summer, attracting hummingbirds and adding visual interest.

Bulbs are toxic if ingested, serving as a natural pest deterrent.

Supports pollinators like hummingbirds and beneficial insects during bloom.

SpeciesLycoris radiataRed Spider Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

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, Japan

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil.
Water regularly during active growth period.
Mist foliage during dry spells for best flowering.
Plant in full sun to partial shade for optimal blooms.
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Provide full sun for best flowering
Mulch to retain moisture

Don't

Overwater bulbs ❌
Disturb bulbs when dormant
Plant in poorly drained soil ❌

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

Vivid border plantShade garden accentLate summer focal point

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Ornamental grasses Coleus Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Adam's August Red Spider Lily questions

What zones can Adam's August Red Spider Lily grow in?

Adam's August Red 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 Adam's August Red Spider Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Adam's August Red Spider Lily bloom?

Adam's August Red 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 Adam's August Red Spider Lily need full sun?

Adam's August Red Spider Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.