Overview
Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens is a perennial in the genus Eremurus, part of the Asphodelaceae family. Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral to alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and cut flowers. It is native to Central Asia.
About
Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens is a perennial in the Asphodelaceae that flowers in the UK from May to July. It favours full sun and well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. Best placed in a south-facing, sheltered aspect and given only moderate soil moisture. Hardy to H5 and native to Central Asia, it suits borders, rock gardens and use as a cut flower.
About the genus
Eremurus is a genus of deciduous perennial flowers in the family Asphodelaceae. They are also known as the foxtail lilies or desert candles.
In the garden
A perennial member of the Asphodelaceae, Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens originates in Central Asia and shows its main interest during the May to July flowering window. The short main season is when it fulfils garden and cutting roles, so site choice should match its environmental preferences. Plant in full sun on well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to alkaline pH, and provide a south-facing, sheltered position to reduce exposure to cold winds. Maintain only moderate soil moisture and avoid areas that remain waterlogged through winter. The rating H5 translates to 'hardy' in UK terms, so it will tolerate typical winter conditions where drainage and exposure are suitable. Use it at the back of borders or in rock gardens where a sunny, south-facing aspect is available, or grow it specifically for cutting during its May–July season. Positioning close to the house or a wall can provide the sheltered aspect it prefers, and the flowering period supplies material for vases through early to mid-summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eremurus
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral to alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens, cut flowers
- Native to
- Central Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens
- Cultivation
- plant tuberous roots in spring or autumn, avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- remove spent flower spikes after blooming
- Propagation
- seed, division of tuberous roots
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens?
Plant tuberous roots in spring or autumn, avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens?
Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens need?
Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral to alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens?
Remove spent flower spikes after blooming.
Is Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens hardy in the UK?
Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardens?
Seed, division of tuberous roots.
More in the Eremurus genus
- Eremurus elwesii 'Albus'Fox Tail
- Eremurus himalaicusHimalayan foxtail lily
- Eremurus olgae
- Eremurus robustusgiant desert candle
- Eremurus spectabilisFox Tail
- Eremurus stenophyllusnarrow-leaved foxtail lily
- Eremurus × 'Himrob'
- Eremurus × isabellinusFoxtail Lily
