How to Grow Cleopatra Foxtail Lily
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Cleopatra Foxtail Lily
Eremurus × isabellinus 'Cleopatra'
flowerCleopatra is a stunning hybrid foxtail lily featuring tall spikes of bi-color flowers in warm peachy-orange and golden-yellow tones. These herbaceous perennials are prized for their dramatic vertical interest and long-lasting blooms that attract pollinators. They thrive in well-drained soils and sunny locations, making them excellent choices for borders and cut flower arrangements.
When should you plant Cleopatra Foxtail Lily in your zone?
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Example Cleopatra Foxtail Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cleopatra Foxtail Lily
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Cleopatra Foxtail Lily blooms
Around Nov 8≈ 365 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Cleopatra Foxtail Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8; prefers cooler climates with cold winters
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Get my Cleopatra Foxtail Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy
Fall through early springPlants are completely dormant underground as crowns with fleshy roots. No visible growth above ground.
Plant crowns in fall or early spring. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot during dormancy. Mulch lightly in cold zones.
Emergence
4-6 weeksStrap-like foliage emerges from the ground in early spring, growing rapidly into tall clumps of narrow green leaves.
Ensure adequate moisture during this stage. Stake tall varieties for wind protection. Apply low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive leaf growth.
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksA tall flower spike develops from the center of the foliage, with tiny buds forming densely along the entire length of the spike.
Continue consistent watering. Provide support stakes if needed. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizer.
Flowering
3-4 weeksDense spikes of peachy-orange and golden-yellow flowers open from bottom to top, creating a striking vertical display. Flowers are small, star-shaped, and densely packed.
Deadhead spent flowers to potentially extend bloom. Water moderately. Stake if necessary to prevent wind damage. Provide cut flowers regularly.
Post-Flowering & Senescence
4-6 weeksAfter flowering, foliage begins to yellow and die back. The plant returns to dormancy as leaves fully senescence.
Reduce watering significantly. Allow foliage to completely die back naturally—do not remove prematurely. Stop fertilizing. Let soil dry out for summer dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand, use beer traps, apply copper tape barriers, or use organic slug pellets
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Increase humidity, spray with water, apply neem oil or sulfur if severe
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Remove affected foliage, spray with insecticidal soap, encourage natural predators
Uses
Ornamental cut flowers
CulinaryCleopatra foxtail lilies are prized as premium cut flowers, adding dramatic height and warm color to floral arrangements. Their long spike form provides structure in mixed bouquets and lasts 10-14 days in a vase. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe densely-packed flower spikes attract numerous bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects during the spring-summer flowering season. This makes them valuable for supporting local pollinator populations. [source]
Garden structure and focal points
HouseholdThe tall, dramatic flower spikes (2-4 feet) create strong vertical interest and serve as focal points in garden design. They are excellent for adding architectural elements to borders and perennial beds. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftThe flower spikes can be dried for long-lasting decorative arrangements. Cut at peak bloom and hang-dry in a warm, airy location for preserved floral displays. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn traditional Central Asian medicine, Eremurus species have been used in various preparations, though modern scientific evidence is limited. Historical uses include treating respiratory and digestive ailments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes when the lower third of flowers have opened for longest vase life (typically 10-14 days). Cut early in the morning and immediately place in water. Remove lower foliage and re-cut stems at an angle every few days. Do not deadhead for fresh flowers if you want seed production and plant energy conservation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Eremurus species are native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia and are sometimes called 'Foxtail Lilies' or 'Desert Candles' due to their distinctive spike-like flower formations.
- 🌱 The Cleopatra variety was specifically bred to produce its striking bi-color peachy-orange and golden-yellow flowers, making it one of the warmest-colored Eremurus hybrids available.
- 🌱 Eremurus plants have a unique growth pattern: they produce all their flower spikes underground before even breaking dormancy, meaning next year's blooms are already formed while this year's flowers are still opening.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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