Species

Crinum x powelliiCrinum x powellii

2 other cultivars

perennial

Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel

Crinum x powellii 'Cecil Houdyshel'

The Story

Plant Bio

Crinum x powellii 'Cecil Houdyshel' is a robust perennial bulbous plant featuring strap-like, arching green leaves and tall flower stems with large, trumpet-shaped, white flowers often with a slight fragrance.

This cultivar is distinguished by its prolific, large white flowers and vigorous growth habit, making it a striking addition to perennial borders and water features.

Uses & Benefits:

Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel offers stunning, fragrant blooms that add tropical elegance to gardens and containers.

Its tolerance for wet soils makes it suitable for water features and rain gardens.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

SpeciesCrinum x powelliiCrinum x powellii

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate to wet

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil.
Water regularly during growing season, keep soil moist.
Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in well-draining soil and ensure full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry periods 🌱
Fertilize annually in spring
Mulch to retain moisture

Don't

Avoid waterlogging ❌
Don't disturb bulbs during flowering
Refrain from heavy pruning in fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bold focal point in bordersTropical-themed garden accentDramatic container specimen

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant ears Tropical grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel questions

What zones can Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel grow in?

Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel 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 Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel bloom?

Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel need full sun?

Crinum x powellii Cecil Houdyshel does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.