Rio Grande Copperlily Habranthus tubispathus
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as the Brazilian Copperlily is a vibrant and eye-catching flowering plant. The Brazilian Copperlily usually displays a clump of strappy, slender green leaves that typically has a glossy surface, providing an attractive backdrop for its flowers. The flowers of this plant are its most distinctive feature, with a trumpet-like shape that flares out into six petals at the end. Each petal has a soft curvature, giving the blossom an elegant appearance. The flower color is often a showy, yellow tone that may have subtle hints of green or orange, making it quite striking against the foliage. The blooms tend to face upwards or outwards, inviting admiration and attracting pollinators. The entire plant gives a lush and tropical impression, and its exquisite blossoms are known to emerge after heavy rains, adding a sense of magic to its presence.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Copper Lily, Rio Grande Copperlily, Brazilian Copperlily, Rain Lily
Common names
Zephyranthes tubispatha, Atamosco tubispatha, Amaryllis tubispathus.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as the Copper Lily is not widely recognized for having toxic effects on humans. There is limited information on its toxicity, and it does not appear to be commonly regarded as a poisonous plant. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning are typically associated with the Copper Lily. However, it is generally a good practice to avoid ingesting parts of plants that are not known to be safe for consumption, as individual reactions can vary.
To pets
The Copper Lily is not specifically listed as a toxic plant to pets; however, the lack of extensive data means that caution should be exercised. It is not commonly associated with symptoms of poisoning in pets. Nonetheless, as with any non-food plant, it is wise to prevent pets from ingesting it, since individual animals might have sensitivities or allergies, and some plants may have unknown effects. If a pet does ingest Copper Lily and shows signs of distress, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Argentina
Benefits
General Benefits- Beautification: The Habranthus tubispathus, commonly known as the Copperlily, produces attractive, trumpet-shaped flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Ease of Care: Copperlilies are low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: They are relatively drought-tolerant, making them suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in arid regions.
- Pest Resistance: Copperlilies are known to have a good resistance to pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions in the garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant blooms of Copperlilies attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Bulb Propagation: These plants can be easily propagated by dividing their bulbs, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings without additional cost.
- Seasonal Interest: With their late summer to early fall blooming period, Copperlilies provide color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Habranthus tubispathus, commonly known as rain lily, can be used as a natural dye source due to pigments found in its petals, providing a range of colors from yellow to orange.
- The bulbs of the rain lily can be crushed and used as a natural adhesive in traditional crafts or small-scale repairs.
- Fibers from the dried leaves of rain lily plants are sometimes utilized in the creation of eco-friendly textiles for homemade fabrics.
- Extracts from the rain lily can serve as a component in natural insect repellents when combined with other plant-based ingredients.
- The rain lily is used in landscape design for its ability to naturalize and fill spaces in rock gardens and borders effectively.
- This plant is utilized in art for pressing, as the delicate flowers can be preserved in books and used for decoration or educational purposes.
- The rain lily's ability to bloom after rain is applied in garden planning for scheduled "surprise" blooms in public gardens and spaces.
- Dried rain lily flowers are incorporated into potpourri mixtures for their subtle fragrance and aesthetic appeal.
- The plant is sometimes used in photography workshops as a subject for macro photography due to its intricate flower structure and vivid colors.
- Children use the hollow stems of rain lily flowers in outdoor play as natural pea shooters or small water squirters.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rain Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rain Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: The Habranthus tubispathus, commonly known as the Copper Lily, often blooms after heavy rains, symbolizing a fresh start or renewal.
- Hope: With its ability to lay dormant and burst forth with vibrant flowers, the Copper Lily represents hope and the belief that good things can come even after dormant periods.
- Surprise: Since the Copper Lily can bloom suddenly after rainfall, it is often associated with unexpected beauty and the element of surprise in life.
- Resilience: This plant's capability to withstand dry conditions and bloom beautifully afterward makes it a symbol of resilience and the ability to overcome challenging circumstances.
WaterCopper lily should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to become almost dry between waterings. During its growth season in spring and summer, watering once a week with about 1/4 gallon per plant is usually sufficient. Reduce the frequency during its dormant period in the fall and winter, watering only when the soil is dry to the touch several inches below the surface. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can encourage fungal diseases. Adjust watering based on rainfall and avoid overwatering, as copper lily is susceptible to root rot in soggy conditions.
LightCopper lily thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would provide bright, indirect sunlight for several hours each day, particularly in the morning with some protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to reduced flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureCopper lily prefers warm temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10. It can generally tolerate temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit but thrives best when temperatures are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the plant is protected from frost and extreme cold, as temperatures below 5 degrees Fahrenheit can be damaging to this perennial.
PruningPrune copper lily after flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage reblooming. Deadheading, or removing old flowers, can improve the plant's appearance and direct energy towards new growth and flowers. Pruning is generally minimal and should be done as needed, typically once a season after the main bloom period has passed.
CleaningNot needed
SoilCopperlily prefers well-draining soil with a mix of sand, loam, and peat to promote adequate drainage and aeration. The best pH range for this soil mix should be slightly acidic to neutral, approximately between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingCopperlily should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide space for growing bulbs. They don't need frequent repotting due to their moderate growth rate.
Humidity & MistingCopperlily thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, around 50-70%, but they are quite adaptable to less humid environments if not too dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in light shade, well-drained soil, and provide regular water.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Copper Lily (Habranthus tubispathus) begins with seed germination, which occurs when soil conditions are warm and moist, typically in spring or early summer. After germination, the seedlings grow into vegetative plants, developing a bulb and foliage. The Copper Lily reaches maturity and enters its flowering stage late in the summer, displaying trumpet-shaped, pink to coppery-red flowers. Following pollination, often by bees or other insects, the flowers will produce capsules filled with seeds. As the growing season ends, the leaves will wither, and the plant enters a dormant period where the bulb remains underground throughout winter. In subsequent growing seasons, the cycle repeats, with the bulb producing new shoots that continue the annual process of growth, flowering, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Habranthus tubispathus, commonly known as the Rio Grande copperlily, is through dividing its bulbs. The best time to do this is after the plant has finished flowering and begun to go dormant, which typically occurs late in the summer or early in the fall. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate them from the parent plant, taking care not to damage the bulb scales. Each division should have at least one or two scales with a piece of basal plate to ensure that it has the necessary parts to generate a new plant. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of approximately 3 inches (about 7.6 centimeters), spaced a few inches apart in well-draining soil. Water the newly planted bulbs lightly to settle the soil and initiate root growth.
