bulb corm tuber

White Spider Lily

Lycoris x albiflora

The Story

Plant Bio

Lycoris x albiflora is a deciduous perennial bulbous plant known for its graceful, arching foliage and striking, trumpet-shaped white flowers that emerge in late summer to early autumn.

This hybrid cultivar is distinguished by its pure white blossoms that create a delicate, elegant display, making it a popular choice for ornamental borders and woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds early fall elegance with its striking white flowers.
Practical UsesLow-maintenance bulb suitable for shaded and sunny spots.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for late-season pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low during dormancy, moderate during growth

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep into well-draining soil.
  2. Water sparingly during dormancy, increase during growth.
  3. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best blooms.
  4. Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  5. Allow foliage to yellow naturally after flowering for bulb health.
  6. Divide bulbs every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during active growth 🌱
  • Provide full sun for vibrant blooms
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Overwater during dormancy ❌
  • Divide bulbs in winter ❌
  • Expose to heavy clay soil without amendment ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

White-flowered borderLate-season garden accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Spring bulbs Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Spider Lily questions

What zones can White Spider Lily grow in?

White 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 White Spider Lily deer resistant?

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

When does White Spider Lily bloom?

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

Does White Spider Lily need full sun?

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

Is White Spider Lily drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow White 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.