perennial

Dwarf Spider Lily

Hymenocallis pygmaea 'Carolina Creeper'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hymenocallis pygmaea, commonly known as the Dwarf Spider Lily, is a low-growing perennial bulb with strap-like leaves and delicate, trumpet-shaped white flowers that emit a subtle fragrance, thriving in warm, moist environments.

This is one of the smallest species in the genus, making it suitable for small water gardens or containers. Its flowers have the characteristic spidery look of the genus but on a much smaller scale.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate white blooms and fragrant foliage that brighten shaded gardens.

Prefers moist soil, making it ideal for garden edges and borders.

Supports local pollinators with its nectar.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern U.S.

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or bulbs into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and partial shade for best flowering results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds

Don't

Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
Don’t expose to full, harsh sunlight in hottest months
Refrain from over-fertilizing which can cause legginess

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

Shaded border with delicate foliageFragrant garden bedMoist woodland garden edge

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes LigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dwarf Spider Lily questions

What zones can Dwarf Spider Lily grow in?

Dwarf 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 Dwarf Spider Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Dwarf Spider Lily bloom?

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

Does Dwarf Spider Lily need full sun?

Dwarf Spider Lily does best in part shade.