Same species
1 named cultivar
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeastern United States, Caribbean
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Crinum americanum, commonly known as the Florida swamp lily, is a perennial bulbous plant with tall, strap-like leaves and large, fragrant trumpet-shaped white flowers that are borne on sturdy flower stalks. This species is notable for its tolerance to wet and swampy conditions, making it an excellent choice for water gardens and bog gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil.
- Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep in spring or fall.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Protect from frost in colder zones by mulching or digging up bulbs.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and avoid drought conditions for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Apply fertilizer during the growing season
- Mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
- Over-fertilize which can cause leaf burn
- Expose to frost without protection ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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
Florida Swamp Lily questions
What zones can Florida Swamp Lily grow in?
Florida Swamp Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Florida Swamp Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Florida Swamp Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Florida Swamp Lily bloom?
Florida Swamp Lily 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 Florida Swamp Lily need full sun?
Florida Swamp Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Crinum to compare

Crinum Lily Ollene
Crinum x hybrida 'Ollene'

Crinum x augustum Spider Lily
Crinum x augustum

Crinum Lily Mystery
Crinum x hybrida 'Mystery'

Stars and Stripes Crinum Lily
Crinum x digweedii 'Stars and Stripes'

Crinum x herbertii Carroll Abbott
Crinum x herbertii 'Carroll Abbott'

Sangria Crinum Lily
Crinum x hybrida 'Sangria'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Florida Swamp 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.

