Spider lily Hymenocallis × macrostephana
ABOUT
The plant known as Hymenocallis × macrostephana is characterized by its striking flowers which are exceptional in their structure. The blooms are typically white and display a distinct arrangement resembling an umbrella-like cluster. Each flower consists of long, narrow petals that radiate outwards, creating a star-like pattern. At the heart of these petals, a prominent cup or crown-like structure, often referred to as the corona, is present and adds to the ornate appearance of the flower. The corona is formed by the fusion of stamens, which are part of the plant's reproductive organs, and is usually quite pronounced. The foliage of this plant is also noteworthy, with long, strap-shaped leaves that emerge from the base. These leaves are lush green in color, providing a beautiful contrast to the bright white of the flowers. They are arching and can be quite graceful, often adding to the overall aesthetic of the plant in a garden setting. As a bulbous perennial, the plant emerges from bulbs that are buried in the soil. This growth habit allows it to develop a strong root system that supports the production of its flowers and leaves season after season. When in bloom, the plant presents itself as a captivating display that can add exotic beauty to any collection of plants or garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
No common names available.
Common names
Hymenocallis × festalis, Hymenocallis × spofforthiae, Hymenocallis × parkeri.
ToxicityTo humans
Hymenocallis × macrostephana, commonly known as Spider Lily, has parts that are considered toxic if ingested. The primary toxic components are alkaloids and calcium oxalate crystals. If someone ingests part of a Spider Lily, they may experience symptoms including nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingesting this plant can cause more serious symptoms such as difficulty swallowing due to swelling of the throat, and if not treated promptly, this can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.
To pets
Spider Lily is also toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats, due to the presence of alkaloids and calcium oxalate crystals. If a pet ingests part of this plant, they may show signs of poisoning, which include drooling, vomiting, decreased appetite, pawing at the face (due to irritation in the mouth), and in severe instances, difficulty breathing if swelling of the throat occurs. It is important to keep pets away from Spider Lilies and to consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Central America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Hymenocallis × macrostephana, commonly known as the Spider Lily, adds visual interest to gardens with its unique and striking flower shape.
- Habitat Support: The flowers can provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: Spider Lilies are known for their ease of care, making them suitable for gardeners of various skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Spider Lilies have a certain level of drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Versatility: These plants can be grown in a variety of settings, including borders, flower beds, and as solitary ornamental plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Spider Lilies typically bloom in late summer to early fall, offering seasonal interest when many other plants may not be flowering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Spider Lily can be used in arts and crafts for creating natural decorative elements due to its unique and intricate flower shape.
- Its bulbs can be used as a source of starch for fashioning eco-friendly adhesives or pastes in primitive or emergency situations.
- Spider Lily leaves can be woven into temporary baskets or mats for garden use, offering an organic solution for carrying light gardening supplies.
- Because of their strong scent, the flowers from a Spider Lily can be floated in a bowl of water to create a simple, fragrant centerpiece for tables or events.
- The sturdy stalks of the plant can be repurposed as natural garden stakes for supporting other plants as they grow.
- In floristry, the Spider Lily is utilized for its exotic appearance, adding a dramatic flair to bouquets and floral arrangements.
- The flowers can be pressed and dried to create botanical art or herbarium specimens for educational purposes or decoration.
- Photographers may use the Spider Lily as a compelling subject matter in botanical photography due to its unique visual interest.
- Large Spider Lily plants can act as a natural privacy screen or garden border when planted in a dense row.
- Culinary enthusiasts sometimes use the vibrant petals to garnish or decorate food, although they should be aware that parts of the plant may be toxic and should not be ingested.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spider Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spider Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty and Elegance: Hymenocallis, commonly known as Spider Lily, often represents beauty and elegance due to its striking and unique flower shape that is reminiscent of spider legs.
- Purity: The Spider Lily’s white color is traditionally associated with purity and innocence, making it a symbol of these virtues.
- Mystery: The exotic appearance of the Spider Lily can symbolize mystery and the unknown, as it stands out with its unusual flower structure.
- Perseverance: As a plant that can grow in challenging conditions, it may symbolize resilience and perseverance.
- Sacredness: In some cultures, the Spider Lily is considered sacred and holds various religious connotations.
WaterFor the Spider Lily (Hymenocallis × macrostephana), it's important to maintain moist soil, especially during active growth in the spring and summer. You should water the Spider Lily thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain, and wait for the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. In general, this might mean watering approximately once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions and the size of the plant. It's better to err on the side of under-watering than over-watering, as the plant is sensitive to waterlogged soil. Depending on the pot size, watering with 16 to 32 ounces of water should be sufficient, adjusting as necessary for the plant's environment and pot size.
LightThe Spider Lily (Hymenocallis × macrostephana) thrives in bright, indirect light. It can be placed in an east or west-facing window where it can receive gentle morning or afternoon light, but should be shielded from harsh midday sun. If the light is too direct or strong, it can cause leaf burn, whereas insufficient light may lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureThe Spider Lily (Hymenocallis × macrostephana) prefers warm conditions and does best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 50°F, but prolonged exposure to cold can be harmful. Avoid placing the Spider Lily in areas where it might experience temperature drafts or fluctuations, such as near air conditioning units or heaters.
PruningPrune the Spider Lily (Hymenocallis × macrostephana) to remove any yellow or damaged leaves, as this helps to direct energy to healthy growth and maintain a tidy appearance. The best time for pruning is in the fall after the flowering period has ended. The Spider Lily does not require extensive pruning, so this should be done sparingly, as needed, and typically not more than once a year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the Spider Lily, a well-draining soil mix with good organic content is ideal. The mix can be composed of equal parts peat, pine bark, and perlite or coarse sand. Spider Lilies prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0, ensuring optimal nutrient uptake and healthy growth.
RepottingSpider Lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they become root-bound. Repotting is best done in late winter or early spring before the onset of the growth season to allow the plant to establish in its new pot.
Humidity & MistingSpider Lilies thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. Consistently high humidity supports lush growth and vibrant blooms, replicating the plant's native tropical environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Spider Lily in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Spider Lily in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleHymenocallis × macrostephana, commonly known as the Spider Lily, starts its life cycle usually as a bulb, which once planted in well-drained soil and provided with adequate moisture, will sprout into a seedling. As the seedling matures, it develops long, strap-shaped leaves and a strong stem that will eventually produce the characteristic spider-like flowers this plant is named for. Flowering typically occurs in the warmer months and is followed by the formation of seed capsules, should pollination by insects such as bees occur. Once the seed capsules mature, they open to release seeds, which can be dispersed to grow into new plants. Over the years, the original bulb may also produce offsets, leading to the clonal propagation of the Spider Lily. During winter or dry seasons, the plant may enter a dormant phase, where growth ceases until favorable conditions return.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Hymenocallis × macrostephana, commonly known as the Spider Lily, is typically propagated through division. This is most effectively done in late summer or early fall after the plant has finished flowering. To propagate by division, carefully unearth the clump of bulbs while trying to minimize root damage. Gently separate the offsets, which are the smaller bulbs that form around the base of the mother plant, from the main bulb. Each offset should have some roots attached. Replant the offsets immediately at a depth of about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12.7 centimeters), making sure the neck of the bulb is slightly above the soil line. This method allows the new plants to become established before the onset of colder weather and is likely to result in blooms in the following growing season.
