Overview
Eremurus robustus is a perennial in the genus Eremurus, part of the Asphodelaceae family. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Eremurus robustus grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders and cut flowers. It is native to C Asia.
About
Eremurus robustus is a perennial in the Asphodelaceae that reaches about 3.0 m and is grown for its towering flowering stem. Native to Central Asia, it flowers in the UK from May to July. Plant in full sun in sandy or loamy, moist but well‑drained soil and it will tolerate cold to H7 (fully hardy). Use it at the back of borders or for cut flowers.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Eremurus robustus
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 robustus originates from Central Asia and is notable for its height, reaching roughly 3.0 m when in growth. In the UK it reliably flowers from May to July, producing the long stems gardeners value for dramatic vertical accents and cutting. Choose a sunny, sheltered site with sandy or loamy soil that is moist but drains freely; the plant will not tolerate waterlogged ground. Full sun exposure suits it best, and its hardiness rating of H7 means it is fully hardy in British gardens (also matching USDA zones 5–9). Planting where soil remains reasonably free‑draining through winter reduces the risk of crown rot. Position Eremurus robustus at the back of a mixed perennial border or in a specialised cutting bed where tall stems can be accommodated. The clear vertical presence of its flowering stems makes it useful for adding height behind lower herbaceous perennials. For cutting, harvest stems as flowers come into partial bloom so they give strong, long stems for arrangements.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eremurus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Eremurus robustus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 3.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, Cut flowers
- Native to
- C Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eremurus robustus
- Cultivation
- Plant crown 10-15 cm deep in spring or autumn; requires well-drained soil; mulch in winter in colder areas
- Pruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming
- Propagation
- By seed or division of root tuberous crowns
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Eremurus robustus?
Plant crown 10-15 cm deep in spring or autumn; requires well-drained soil; mulch in winter in colder areas.
Where is the best place to plant Eremurus robustus?
Eremurus robustus prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Eremurus robustus need?
Eremurus robustus grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Eremurus robustus?
Remove spent flower spikes after blooming.
How big does Eremurus robustus grow?
Eremurus robustus reaches a height of 3.0 m.
Is Eremurus robustus hardy in the UK?
Eremurus robustus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Eremurus robustus?
By seed or division of root tuberous crowns.
More in the Eremurus genus
- Eremurus elwesii 'Albus'Fox Tail
- Eremurus elwesii, or elwesianus of gardensFox Tail
- Eremurus himalaicusHimalayan foxtail lily
- Eremurus olgae
- Eremurus spectabilisFox Tail
- Eremurus stenophyllusnarrow-leaved foxtail lily
- Eremurus × 'Himrob'
- Eremurus × isabellinusFoxtail Lily
