Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus (Foxtail Lily) — Perennial

Overview

Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus is a perennial in the genus Eremurus, part of the Asphodelaceae family. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus 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 Tien Shan and Pamir Mountains and Central Asia.

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 var. tardiflorus is a perennial in the Asphodelaceae from the Tien Shan and Pamir ranges of Central Asia, valued for a single, upright flowering spike that reaches about 3.0 m. The plant produces many small flowers along a tall raceme and is best positioned where that vertical form is a feature rather than hidden behind other plants. Flowering occurs May to July. Plant it in full sun on a south-facing site and choose sandy or loamy soil with good drainage; the rootstock does not tolerate waterlogging even though the soil can remain evenly moist during the growing season. It is rated H7 for UK conditions, meaning it is fully hardy and can be left in the ground through winter. USDA zones 5–9 indicate a similar level of winter tolerance for milder regions. Allow space in the middle or rear of a border so the 3.0 m spike can be seen; it also suits a dedicated bed for cut flowers where stems can be harvested for arrangements. The combination of strong vertical habit and late spring to midsummer bloom makes Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus a specialist plant for tall-border designs and cutting gardens.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Eremurus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 3.0 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Cut flowers
Native to: Tien Shan and Pamir Mountains, Central Asia

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus

Cultivation: Plant in spring or autumn, in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Requires staking due to tall flower spikes.
Pruning: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage tidiness; cut back foliage after it dies down in autumn.
Propagation: By seed or division of root tubers in autumn or spring.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus?

Plant in spring or autumn, in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Requires staking due to tall flower spikes.

Where is the best place to plant Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus?

Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus need?

Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus 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 var. tardiflorus?

Remove spent flower spikes to encourage tidiness; cut back foliage after it dies down in autumn.

How big does Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus grow?

Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus reaches a height of 3.0 m.

Is Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus hardy in the UK?

Eremurus robustus var. tardiflorus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.