Lycoris aurea aka Golden Hurricane Lily

Lycoris aurea is a bulbous perennial called golden spider lily. It belongs to the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae. Its native range spans central and southern China to Indochina. It grows in a subtropical climate. Wild plants occur on damp, shaded slopes and in rock cracks. In gardens, it forms upright clumps that spread through bulb offsets. These can build small colonies over time.

Plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre) tall. Their spread is about 0.3–1.6 feet (0.1–0.5 metres). Smooth, round, green stems bear flowers without any leaves. The fleshy green leaves grow from the base after bloom. Each leaf has a narrow, strap-like shape. Leaves can reach 2 feet (0.6 metres) long. They stay through winter and die back in spring. The bulb then enters its rest period.

Flowers open in August and September, in groups of five or six. Their yellow to orange-yellow colour stands out on bare stems. Each funnel-shaped flower has six wavy petals with tips bent back. Long, curved stamens give the blooms their spider-like look. Sources report flowers about 0.3–0.5 feet (0.1–0.15 metres) across. The fruit is a capsule, but some plants do not set seed. The flowers draw butterflies and hummingbirds and suit cutting.

Grow this bulb in fertile soil that drains well. Full sun suits it, though NC State reports better flowering with partial sun. The soil should dry out during the summer rest. Plant bulbs in autumn and choose a site sheltered from wind. Leave established bulbs in place, since they dislike being moved. Use deep pots where summers are wet or winters too cold. The RHS rates it H2, meaning it cannot withstand freezing. NC State lists USDA zones 6–10, a much broader cold range. Both sources advise winter mulch in colder areas.

Use it in borders, gravel beds, courtyard gardens, or containers. It needs no pruning and has few reported disease problems. The RHS reports few pests, while NC State flags narcissus bulb fly. Deer, rabbits, and drought pose less trouble than for many plants. Divide offsets after bloom, or sow seed when ripe. Seed-grown plants may take five years to flower. Do not eat the bulbs; they can harm people and pets. Lycorine can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Reports describe folk medicinal uses, but no known food use.