Crinum bulbispermum aka Hardy Swamplily

Crinum bulbispermum is a bulbous perennial in the amaryllis family. It comes from southern Africa, including South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini. The name Orange River lily links it to that river's valley. In the wild, it grows beside rivers and in marshes. It also grows in seasonal pools that dry out in winter.

The plant forms an upright clump of blue-green, strap-shaped leaves. In gardens, it reaches about 3 feet [0.91 metres] tall. Its spread reaches about 2 feet [0.61 metres]. Flower stalks rise above the leaves to 2–3 feet [0.61–0.91 metres]. Each stalk bears an umbel of eight to thirteen flowers. The fragrant, trumpet-shaped blooms reach about 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] long. They are white with a pink flush and red stripes. Each petal has a stripe along its centre. Missouri Botanical Garden lists flowering from May to June. Chicago Botanic Garden also records blooms in July and August. Plants may flower again in early autumn.

Grow this bulb in full sun or light shade. It suits rich, moist soil that drains well. It also tolerates soggy ground, which suits water-garden planting. Keep the soil moist during growth and feed it regularly. The listed hardiness range is USDA zones 7–10. In zone 6, sheltered sites and winter mulch may help. Containers offer another option where winters are too cold. Gardeners can sink the pots outdoors, then bring them inside for winter. Use a pot slightly wider than the bulb. Leave the bulb's neck above the soil when planting. This species grows well with its roots confined in a pot.

Its bold leaves and tall flowers suit borders and bedding. It can serve as an accent beside a water garden. The flowers also suit cutting and draw butterflies. Missouri Botanical Garden rates its upkeep as low. Mealybugs, nematodes, slugs and snails may cause trouble. Leaf scorch can also occur. Propagation uses seeds or offsets split from the parent bulb. Fresh seed should remain uncovered when sown. Young seedlings need greenhouse care for their first two years.

Do not treat this plant as a proven food crop. Plants For A Future suggests possible bulb use but gives no confirmed edible record for this species. The same source reports toxicity to mammals, without stating its severity. That warning warrants caution around people and pets. It lists no known medicinal uses.