The Story
Plant Bio
Zephyranthes x hybrida, commonly called rain lilies, are small, bulbous perennials with grass-like foliage and trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in soft shades, often pink or white, creating a delicate floral display.
The 'Sunset' cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant, sunset-inspired coloration, featuring striking pink and orange hues that make it particularly eye-catching during its flowering period.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
12 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate during active growth, drought tolerant in dormancy
Humidity
Prefers average humidity levels
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 3-4 inches deep in well-draining soil
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil
- Place in full sun to partial shade for best blooms
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize with balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering in winter.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Provide full sun for vibrant blooms
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Don’t overwater during dormancy ❌
- Avoid heavy clay soil without amendment
- Don’t disturb bulbs once established
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
Zephyranthes Sunset questions
What zones can Zephyranthes Sunset grow in?
Zephyranthes Sunset is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Zephyranthes Sunset deer resistant?
Yes — Zephyranthes Sunset is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Zephyranthes Sunset bloom?
Zephyranthes Sunset typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Zephyranthes Sunset need full sun?
Zephyranthes Sunset does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Zephyranthes Sunset drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Zephyranthes Sunset 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'

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

Rain Lily Brunswick County
Zephyranthes simpsonii 'Brunswick County'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Zephyranthes Sunset 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.











