Glehn's Lily Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii
ABOUT
This plant, commonly known as the Glehn's Lily, features a stunning appearance that makes it a beautiful specimen in any garden or wild setting. It sports large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that cluster at the base and along the stem, providing a lush green backdrop for its flowers. The blooms of the Glehn's Lily are particularly impressive, with each one being trumpet-shaped and primarily white in color, often with a hint of green or purple at the outer parts. These flowers are arranged in a dramatic, towering inflorescence that commands attention when in bloom. Each individual flower is fragrant and may attract various pollinators. After the blossoming period, the plant produces capsules containing numerous seeds, which allows for the dispersal and propagation of the species. The overall look of the plant is one of grandeur and elegance, and while in flower, it adds a touch of sophistication to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Glehn's Lily, Sakhalin Giant Lily
Common names
Lilium cordatum, Lilium glehnii.
ToxicityTo humans
The Giant Lily (Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii) has parts that are considered toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains various alkaloids which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Ingestion of large amounts of the plant can lead to more severe symptoms, including heart rhythm disturbances, convulsions, and in extreme cases, may be fatal. Care should be taken to avoid ingesting any part of the Giant Lily.
To pets
The Giant Lily (Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii) is toxic to pets if ingested. The toxicity is due to the presence of alkaloids that can result in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Severe poisoning can lead to more serious issues such as tremors, seizures, heart problems, and could potentially be life-threatening. All parts of the Giant Lily are considered poisonous and pets should not be allowed to ingest any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3 feet 7 inches (1.1 meters)
Spread
2 feet 6 inches (0.76 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its striking foliage and tall flower spikes.
- Habitat Support: Provides food and habitat for pollinators like bees when in bloom.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
- Biodiversity Promotion: By introducing this plant, gardeners can contribute to the diversity of plant species in an area.
- Cultural Significance: Often used in ornamental gardening in Japan, which can provide cultural enrichment and connection.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii, commonly known as the Sakhalin giant lily, can be utilized for its fibers, which are strong and suitable for making ropes or twine.
- The giant flowers of the Sakhalin giant lily can be used as a natural container to hold small items or foodstuffs in a survival situation due to their size and shape.
- The large leaves of the plant can serve as impromptu plates or wrappers for food, being suitable for temporary use during outdoor activities.
- Because of their height and structural integrity, the tall stems of the Sakhalin giant lily could be used to create garden stakes to support other plants.
- The sap of this plant may have use as a natural adhesive for minor repairs in situations where conventional glue is not available.
- The seed pods of the Sakhalin giant lily, when dried, can serve as decorative elements in floral arrangements and crafts.
- The plant can be used in educational settings to study the growth cycle of lilies and the specific environmental conditions they require to thrive.
- Cultivating the Sakhalin giant lily can provide ecological benefits, such as attracting pollinators like bees to the area, enhancing local biodiversity.
- The awe-inspiring presence of this giant lily can be used to create a focal point in garden design, contributing to landscape aesthetics.
- Due to its rarity and size, the Sakhalin giant lily can be grown as a collector's item for enthusiasts who specialize in cultivating unique and uncommon plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cardiocrinum giganteum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cardiocrinum giganteum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Exceptional Beauty: As Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii, commonly known as Giant Lily, typically produces stunning and large flowers, it symbolizes exceptional beauty and the admiration of such.
- Rarity: Due to its relatively rare occurrence and specific growing conditions, it can represent the uniqueness and preciousness of rare finds in life.
- Rebirth: The Giant Lily dies back after flowering, which can take several years, symbolizing the cycle of death and rebirth, and the idea of transformation over time.
- Peace: With its lush and calming green foliage, the plant is often associated with tranquility, peace, and the soothing aspect of nature.
WaterThe Giant Lily, when being watered, requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It should not be allowed to dry out. Water the Giant Lily approximately once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. During periods of high heat or if the plant is in a particularly sunny spot, check the soil moisture more frequently and water as needed to maintain that consistent moisture level.
LightThe Giant Lily thrives best in partial shade, where it can receive filtered sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid placing it in direct, harsh sunlight as it can damage the foliage. A spot that simulates the dappled light of a forest understory is ideal for this plant.
TemperatureThe Giant Lily is comfortable in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, which are its ideal growing conditions. It can tolerate a maximum temperature of around 80°F and a minimum temperature of just above freezing, but extended exposure to these extremes can be detrimental to its health. Ensure protection from frost to prevent damage to the plant.
PruningPruning the Giant Lily typically involves removing spent flower stalks after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance and to prevent seed production, which can sap energy from the plant. This is generally done in late summer or early fall. Pruning can also include removing any yellowed or damaged leaves to help prevent disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Giant Himalayan Lily thrives in a well-draining, humus-rich soil mixture with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts is often recommended to provide proper aeration and moisture retention for this plant species.
RepottingThe Giant Himalayan Lily generally does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3 to 4 years. Due to its large bulb and potential size, it is important to provide a large enough pot to accommodate its growth.
Humidity & MistingThe Giant Himalayan Lily prefers high humidity levels, ranging from 60% to 80%, to mirror its native humid and forested habitats. Ensuring ample humidity will support its lush foliage and overall health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleCardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii, commonly known as Glehn's Giant Lily, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in the spring after a period of cold stratification. The seedlings develop into bulbils and slowly mature over several years, forming an underground bulb. During its vegetative stage, the plant produces a rosette of large, heart-shaped leaves annually. After 5 to 7 years or longer, the mature bulb sends up a tall flower stalk, which can reach up to 2 meters, bearing fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in the summer. Following flowering and seed production, the main bulb dies, but offsets or bulbils may have formed at the base, which will continue to grow and repeat the life cycle. The seeds disperse, typically by wind, to colonize new areas, perpetuating the life cycle of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Giant Himalayan Lily can be propagated through seed collection and sowing. The best time to collect seeds is when the seed pods on the plant have dried and begun to crack open, generally in late summer or early fall. Sowing the seeds should be done shortly after collection to take advantage of their freshness and viability. Seeds can be sown in well-drained soil in a cold frame or under glass in late fall, as they require a period of cold stratification to germinate effectively—usually a cold winter will provide this naturally. Once sown, it is necessary to wait until the second or third year before the seedlings are large enough to be transplanted into their final position in the garden.
