Rain Lily
Zephyranthes atamasca
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
6 inches
Width
4 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Zephyranthes atamasca, commonly known as the Atamasca rain lily, is a bulbous perennial that forms dense clumps with slender, grass-like leaves and produces charming, funnel-shaped white flowers that bloom after rain. This species is prized for its reliable, seasonal flowering and its ability to naturalize in various garden settings, creating a delicate, star-like floral display.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Place in full sun for optimal blooming.
- Keep soil moist during active growth period.
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide bulbs every 3-4 years in fall for propagation.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during growth season 💧
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Divide bulbs every few years
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
- Refrain from fertilizing excessively
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| 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 4–6. 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?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Rain Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Rain Lily bloom?
Rain Lily typically blooms in late summer through late summer. 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 Zephyranthes to compare
Grandjax Rain Lily
Zephyranthes grandiflora 'Grandjax'
Zephyranthes Sunset
Zephyranthes x hybrida 'Sunset'
Lydia Luckman Zephyranthes
Zephyranthes x hybrida 'Lydia Luckman'
Rain Lily South Pacific
Zephyranthes x hybrida 'South Pacific'
Yellow Rain Lily
Zephyranthes primulina
Autumn Zephyrlily
Zephyranthes candida
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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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.
