How to Grow Copper Lily
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Copper Lily
Habranthus tubispathus
flowerCopper Lily is a tender bulbous perennial native to South America, prized for its stunning copper-orange trumpet flowers that bloom in late summer to fall. The delicate, reflexed petals and prominent stamens create an exotic appearance despite the plant's modest size. It thrives in warm climates and makes an excellent container specimen or garden accent.
When should you plant Copper Lily in your zone?
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Example Copper Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Copper 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 Copper Lily blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Copper Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9b-11; grown as a summer-flowering annual in cooler zones
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Dormancy/Planting
2-3 months (winter to early spring)Bulb remains inactive, may appear withered or dried out
Store in cool, dry location. Plant in spring when soil warms. Do not overwater dormant bulbs.
Emergence
2-3 weeksFine, grass-like green shoots emerge from soil, typically 4-6 inches tall
Begin regular watering as growth appears. Ensure good drainage. Provide full sun exposure.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksSlender, arching foliage develops; plant reaches 8-12 inches tall with multiple leaf shoots
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Remove any damaged leaves.
Flowering
3-4 weeks (late August through September)Delicate copper-orange trumpet flowers emerge on tall scapes, usually 1-3 flowers per bulb, with prominent red stamens
Continue regular watering but reduce frequency slightly. Do not fertilize heavily during bloom. Flowers typically open in afternoon and close by evening.
Post-Bloom & Dormancy
2-3 months through winterFlowers fade; foliage gradually yellows and withers as bulb enters dormancy
Taper watering significantly. Allow foliage to die back naturally (do not remove prematurely). Move containers to cool, dry location. No feeding required.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap if severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Remove and destroy affected bulbs immediately. Ensure good drainage to prevent soil moisture that attracts flies.
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Hand-pick in early morning or evening. Use copper tape barriers around containers. Apply slug bait as needed.
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Prevent with excellent drainage and reduced watering in dormancy. Remove affected bulbs. Use fungicide if infection spreads.
Uses
Not Edible
CulinaryHabranthus tubispathus is toxic and should never be consumed by humans or pets. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal upset and other poisoning symptoms. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftThe exotic copper-orange blooms make striking additions to floral arrangements and tropical-themed displays. The unusual color pairs beautifully with greens, purples, and warm reds. [source]
Ornamental Container Gardens
HouseholdCopper Lilies excel in containers on patios, decks, and balconies, providing stunning late-summer color when many other plants are fading. Containers also allow gardeners in cool zones to grow these tender bulbs. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe bright flowers attract hummingbirds and various bee species, making them valuable for supporting pollinators during late summer and early fall. [source]
Harvest Tips
Copper Lilies are ornamental flowers best enjoyed in the garden or as cut flowers. Cut stems in the early morning when flowers are just opening. Place in clean water immediately. Flowers typically last 1-2 days as cut flowers. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage additional flowering and prevent seed formation, which drains bulb energy.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Habranthus flowers are heliotropic, meaning they open and close in response to sunlight—typically opening in the afternoon and closing by evening, a behavior known as nyctinasty.
- 🌱 The genus name 'Habranthus' comes from Greek words meaning 'graceful' and 'flower,' reflecting the delicate beauty of these blooms.
- 🌱 Copper Lilies are sometimes called 'Rain Lilies' because they often bloom after heavy rains or increased watering, making their flowering somewhat unpredictable but delightfully surprising in the garden.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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