Overview
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' is a bulbous perennial in the genus Crinum, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and water margins.
About
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae prized for its fragrant summer blooms. It flowers from July to September. Plants prefer full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil that remains moist and a sheltered position. Use in borders, large containers or at water margins where fragrance can be appreciated.
About the genus
Crinum is a genus of about 180 species of perennial plants that have large showy flowers on leafless stems, and develop from bulbs. They are found in seasonally moist areas, including marshes, swamps, depressions and along the sides of streams and lakes in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide.
Wikipedia contributors, "Crinum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Crinum
In the garden
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' belongs to the genus Crinum and is grown for its scented flowers that appear in summer. As a bulbous perennial, it returns each year and suits sites where soil retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Flowering takes place from July to September. Give the plant a sunny or lightly shaded spot with fertile, well-drained soil that stays moist; avoid exposed positions by choosing a sheltered microclimate. The UK hardiness rating H4 corresponds to average hardiness, so siting in a protected border or close to a warm wall will reduce winter risk across much of the UK. Mulch in autumn to moderate soil temperature and conserve moisture, and consider lifting only where winters are exceptionally cold and wet. Ellen Bosanquet Crinum fits the back of a mixed herbaceous border, a large container on a patio, or the marginal edge of a pond where the roots can access moisture. Its fragrant blooms are best placed near paths or seating so their scent can be enjoyed between July and September.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Crinum
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- bulbous perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, containers, water margins
- Fragrance
- fragrant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet'
- Cultivation
- Plant bulbs in spring in well-drained soil; protect from severe frost; water regularly during growing season.
- Pruning
- Remove dead flower stalks and foliage as needed.
- Propagation
- division of bulbs
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet'?
Plant bulbs in spring in well-drained soil; protect from severe frost; water regularly during growing season.
Where is the best place to plant Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet'?
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' need?
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet'?
Remove dead flower stalks and foliage as needed.
Is Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' hardy in the UK?
Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Crinum × powellii 'Ellen Bosanquet'?
Division of bulbs.
More in the Crinum genus
- Crinum longifolium
- Crinum powellii 'Album'
- Crinum × powelliiswamp lily
- Crinum × powellii 'Haarlemense'Haarlem Crinum
- Crinum × powellii 'Krelagei'