Hymenocallis latifolia

Hymenocallis latifolia (P. Mill.) M. Roemer
Common Name Spider Lily
Botanical Name Hymenocallis latifolia
Family Amaryllidaceae
Form Wildflower
Growth Habit Spider Lily is a showy perennial herb which grows from 2’-3’ tall, is
clump forming, and sprouts from an underground bulb.
Stem The stem is only present when the plant is in bloom and is leafless.
Leaves The leaves are green to bluish-green in color and have a thick
texture. They are up to 2 ¾” wide and 2’ long, sprouting oppositely
from the base of the stem on one plane only.
Flowers White and sweet-smelling, the unique flowers bloom from spring
through fall. They are 5” in diameter and occur in clusters at the
top of flowering stalks. The flower has 3 petals and 3 petal-like
sepals that unite in the center under a saucer-shaped corona. Each
flower has 6 stamens that are topped with bright golden-yellow
anthers.

Fruit The fruit is a fleshy, oval-shaped capsule which contains from 1-6
seeds.
Soil conditions Spider Lily is tolerant of a variety of conditions.
Water This species is usually found in slightly moist areas.
Light Requirement Sun to partial shade
Native Growth Zone 9-11
Propagation Seed, bulb division
Habitat A species found in mangrove swamps, floodplain forests, flatwoods,
hammocks, and along beaches.
Remarks Hymenocallis latifolia is distinguished from Swamp Lily (Crinum
americanum) by its bloom and by its leaves which are arranged on
one plane. Those of the Swamp Lily are arranged spirally.
Although Spider Lily is popular in a cultivated setting, its leaves are
eaten by lubber grasshoppers. There are 10 other species of
Hymenocallis native to Florida and they are all difficult to distinguish
from one another.
Works Consulted