Zephyranthes candida aka Zephyr Lily

Zephyranthes candida is a bulb from the amaryllis family. Its native range spans southern and southeastern Brazil to northeastern Argentina. Gardeners call it rain lily or white zephyr lily. It grows in small clumps and returns each year. Its leaves may die back or stay green in mild climates.

Garden plants reach about 0.5–1 foot [0.15–0.30 metres] tall. RHS gives a broader height range reaching 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Clumps spread about 0.5–1 foot [0.15–0.30 metres] across. RHS lists a smaller spread of 0.33 feet [0.1 metres]. Growth is slow, with maturity taking two to five years. Narrow, bright green leaves rise from the base. They look like grass and have smooth edges. The upright stems add to this fine, grassy form.

Each stem bears one white flower with six petal-like parts. The blooms form cups, then open into star shapes. They span about 0.08–0.17 feet [0.025–0.05 metres] across. Orange stamens stand out against the pale flowers. Some blooms have a pink or reddish blush. Flowers appear in succession through summer and early autumn. Missouri Botanical Garden lists August to September as the bloom season. In its native habitat, rain can trigger flowering. Plants can set seed and reseed in the garden.

Give this bulb full sun for the best display. It also grows in part shade. Afternoon shade helps protect leaves and flowers in extreme heat. It accepts clay, loam, or sand with good drainage. It also grows in acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. Keep the soil moist, but guard against winter wet. Plant bulbs about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] deep. Sources list USDA zones 7–10 and UK hardiness H3. In colder areas, lift bulbs before the first frost. Store them somewhere cool and dry through winter. Move pots to a cool, frost-free place with slight moisture.

Use clumps beside paths, at border fronts, or in rock gardens. Groups also suit patio pots and indoor growing. Divide offsets in spring, or sow fresh ripe seed with warmth. No routine pruning is needed. Remove spent flowers to limit reseeding. Serious pest and disease trouble is uncommon. Slugs, snails, and spider mites can still cause damage. The bulbs are harmful to people and pets if eaten. Do not use them as food, and wear gloves when handling.