Overview
Eremurus × isabellinus is a perennial in the genus Eremurus, part of the Asphodelaceae family. Eremurus × isabellinus 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.
About
Eremurus × isabellinus is a perennial in the Asphodelaceae, commonly known as Foxtail Lily. It flowers in the UK from May to July. Grow it in full sun on well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with neutral to alkaline pH and moderate moisture. It is hardy (H5) and performs best in a sheltered, south-facing position.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Eremurus × isabellinus
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
Eremurus × isabellinus belongs to the genus Eremurus in the Asphodelaceae and is typically grown for its summer flowering. In the UK it comes into bloom from May to July. The plant prefers a sunny, south-facing site where soil drains freely; a sandy or loamy texture with neutral to alkaline pH suits it best. Moderate soil moisture is required but avoid waterlogged conditions, and a sheltered position will protect the crowns from cold winds. Planting in a free-draining mix and choosing a spot with full sun helps the roots establish and reduces the risk of rot. It is rated H5, meaning it is hardy across much of the UK, so no winter protection is usually needed in typical garden situations. A south-facing aspect improves flowering reliability where microclimates are cooler. Use Eremurus × isabellinus in borders and rock gardens where a summer display is wanted, and cut stems can be brought indoors as cut flowers. For cutting, harvest stems while flowers are opening to get the longest display; stems are available for arranging during the May to July flowering period.
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 × isabellinus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens, cut flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eremurus × isabellinus
- Cultivation
- Plant crown just below soil surface in spring or autumn; avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Eremurus × isabellinus?
Plant crown just below soil surface in spring or autumn; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Eremurus × isabellinus?
Eremurus × isabellinus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Eremurus × isabellinus need?
Eremurus × isabellinus 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 × isabellinus?
Remove spent flower spikes after blooming.
Is Eremurus × isabellinus hardy in the UK?
Eremurus × isabellinus 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 × isabellinus?
Seed, division.
More in the Eremurus genus
- Eremurus elwesii 'Albus'Fox Tail
- Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardensFox Tail
- Eremurus himalaicusHimalayan foxtail lily
- Eremurus olgae
- Eremurus robustusgiant desert candle
- Eremurus spectabilisFox Tail
- Eremurus stenophyllusnarrow-leaved foxtail lily
- Eremurus × 'Himrob'
