About
Habranthus robustus, the Argentine rain lily, is a bulbous perennial with narrow, arching, strap-shaped leaves and erect stems to 30 cm bearing solitary, funnel-shaped, light-pink flowers to 6 cm across in summer. A rewarding and ornamental bulb for a sunny, well-drained border or container.
About the genus
Habranthus, the rain lilies, are small bulbous perennials from South America with narrow, strap-shaped leaves and solitary, nodding, funnel-shaped flowers in pink, orange or yellow, typically appearing after summer rain. Grown in sunny, well-drained borders or containers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toBrazil to Argentina
ToxicityAll parts of the plant are mildly toxic if ingested. Sap can cause skin irritation. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost with added grit, in bright, filtered light. Provide a balanced liquid feed monthly during the growing period. Reduce watering in winter but do not allow to become completely dry
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers at 16-18C as soon as ripe. Bulb propagation by the removal of offsets and potting them up separately, may be done in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free