Hymenocallis calathina (Lily) — perennial bulbous plant

Overview

Hymenocallis calathina is a perennial bulbous plant in the genus Hymenocallis, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Hymenocallis calathina grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Suggested uses include ornamental garden plant. It is native to Mexico.

About

Hymenocallis calathina is a perennial bulbous plant in the Amaryllidaceae that produces fragrant summer flowers. It originates from Mexico and grows from bulbs with strap-like leaves. Flowering occurs from June to August. It favours full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained sandy or loamy soil of neutral to slightly acidic reaction.

About the genus

Hymenocallis (US) or (UK) is a genus of flowering plants in the Amaryllidaceae family native to the Americas.

Wikipedia contributors, "Hymenocallis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hymenocallis

In the garden

Hymenocallis calathina is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae, native to Mexico, valued for its fragrant summer blooms. As a bulbous plant it dies back and regrows seasonally from its underground storage organ and is most often grown for its flowering display and scent rather than foliage. Flowering takes place from June to August. Plant bulbs where they receive full sun or a little afternoon shade; the species tolerates partial shade but will flower best with plenty of light. Use a free-draining sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH and keep the root zone moist rather than waterlogged. Good drainage is important to prevent bulb rot in wetter soils; incorporating coarse grit into heavier patches will help without altering moisture-holding in the root area. As an ornamental garden plant it suits sunny borders or a summer-flowering bulb collection where scent is appreciated. In cooler or wetter UK sites, place bulbs on a slight slope or in raised beds to aid drainage while maintaining consistent moisture. Expect the scented flowers to be the main interest from June to August, making that period the best time to judge form and vigour.