Zephyranthes candida aka Zephyr Lily

Taxonomy

Genus Zephyranthes Family Amaryllidaceae Order Asparagales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Zephyranthes candida, also known as autumn zephyrlily, white windflower, white rain lily, and Peruvian swamp lily, is a deciduous bulbous perennial native to South America. It can be found in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil. This species is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and has reportedly naturalized in various regions including South Africa, the Indian subcontinent, China, Korea, and parts of the United States. The plant grows up to 20cm in height and has linear basal leaves that are a deep glossy green, measuring 3mm wide. Its goblet-shaped white flowers, which bloom from late August onwards in the Northern Hemisphere, initially resemble new leaves but eventually emerge from their papery sheaths in a stunning whiteness. The flowers can sometimes have a pinkish hue on the underside. A leaf-like bract measuring 1.8 to 4cm accompanies the flowers. Zephyranthes candida thrives in full sun to part shade and requires a medium wet soil for optimal growth. Propagation of this species can be done by dividing bulbs or offsets, as well as from seed. It was initially described as Amaryllis candida by John Lindley in 1823 but was later transferred to its current genus by William Herbert in 1826. In addition to the aforementioned names, Zephyranthes candida is also commonly referred to as August rain lily, white zephyr lily, white fairy lily, and autumn zephyr lily.

Common names

Zephyr Lily, Rain Lily, Fairy Lily, Flower Of The Western Wind, White Rain Lily

How to care for Zephyr Lily

Difficulty

Zephyr Lily requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Soil

Zephyr Lily loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Zephyr Lily prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Zephyr Lily to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Zephyr Lily is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The Zephyr Lily is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

More info:
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More Species in Zephyranthes Genus

Zephyranthes lindleyana

Zephyranthes candida Zephyr Lily

Zephyranthes drummondii Prairie Lily

Zephyranthes carinata Rose Pink Zephyr Lily

Zephyranthes atamasco Atamasco Lily

Zephyranthes chlorosolen Evening Rain Lily

Zephyranthes fosteri

Zephyranthes Zephyrlily

Zephyranthes rosea Pink Rain Lilly