rain lily
Habranthus brachyandrus
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
12 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Habranthus brachyandrus is a tender, bulbous perennial known as a Rain Lily. Native to South America, it produces large, lily-like flowers in summer, often prompted by rainfall. Unique for its ability to thrive in dry conditions and for its late summer blooming period after rainfall.
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 spring.
- Water regularly during active growth, ensuring soil stays moist.
- Mist cuttings or plant divisions in early spring for propagation.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Allow the foliage to die back naturally in late fall for healthy bulbs.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during active growth 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Overwater to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without drainage ❌
- Allow foliage to be removed prematurely
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
rain lily questions
What zones can rain lily grow in?
rain 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 rain lily deer resistant?
Yes — rain lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does rain lily bloom?
rain lily 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 rain lily need full sun?
rain lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is rain lily drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), rain lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Habranthus to compare
Flory's Habranthus
Habranthus x floryi 'Green Base'
Pink Rain Lily
Habranthus tubispathus 'roseus'
Martinez's Rain Lily
Habranthus martinezii
Pink Flamingo Rain Lily
Habranthus thunbergii 'Pink Flamingos'
Pink Rain Lily
Habranthus robustus
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow rain 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.
