perennialN. America Native

Florida Swamp Lily

Crinum americanum

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:

Ornamental UsesProvides large, dramatic foliage and showy flowers, ideal for tropical-themed gardens.
Practical UsesMoisture-loving plant suitable for rain gardens and water features.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like hummingbirds and bees.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil.
  2. Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep in spring or fall.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
  5. Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Moist border plantTropical garden accentFocal point with large foliage

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Canna lilies Elephant ears Caladium

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.

Keep exploring

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.