How to Grow Red Spider Lily
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Red Spider Lily
Lycoris incarnata
flowerLycoris incarnata, commonly known as Red Spider Lily, is a bulbous perennial with striking spider-like crimson-red flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. The plant produces elongated, strap-like green foliage that emerges after flowering, creating a dramatic ornamental display. This East Asian native is prized for its exotic appearance and is often used in Japanese gardens and landscaping.
When should you plant Red Spider Lily in your zone?
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Example Red Spider Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Red Spider 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 Red Spider Lily blooms
Around Apr 20≈ 3 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Red Spider Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-10, with best performance in zones 7-9
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Dormancy
June-JulyBulb remains underground in a resting state with minimal activity
Keep soil mostly dry during summer dormancy; minimal watering required. Store in cool location if bulbs are dug up.
Emergence
AugustFlower buds and stems begin pushing through the soil as temperatures cool in late summer
Begin regular watering as growth initiates. Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot. Apply balanced fertilizer.
Flowering
2-4 weeks in August-SeptemberSpectacular spider-like red flowers with reflexed petals and prominent stamens appear on tall stems, typically 12-18 inches tall
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage longer blooming. Provide stakes if needed for tall varieties.
Foliage Development
September-NovemberLong, slender green leaves emerge from the base after flowering, growing 12-18 inches tall
Continue regular watering and feeding. Foliage will photosynthesize and replenish bulb energy reserves. Keep foliage intact until it naturally yellows.
Senescence
November-JuneFoliage gradually yellows and dies back completely as temperatures cool and day length shortens
Reduce watering as foliage dies back. Allow leaves to remain until completely brown before removing. Withhold water during dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if infestation is severe. Ensure adequate humidity to discourage mites.
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Remove by hand, use slug traps, or apply diatomaceous earth around bulbs. Encourage natural predators like ground beetles.
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Remove and destroy infested bulbs. Apply neem oil as preventative during growing season. Ensure proper drainage to prevent soil conditions that attract flies.
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Prevent by ensuring excellent drainage and avoiding waterlogging. Remove and destroy affected bulbs. Do not replant in same location without soil amendment.
Uses
Ornamental Use Only
CulinaryRed Spider Lily is highly toxic and should never be consumed. It is grown exclusively as an ornamental plant. [source]
Floral Arrangements and Decorations
HouseholdThe striking spider-like red flowers are excellent for fresh cut floral arrangements, adding exotic beauty and drama to table centerpieces and bouquets. Long-lasting blooms provide substantial decorative value. [source]
Japanese Garden Design
CraftLycoris incarnata is a traditional element in Japanese gardens, valued for its symbolic significance and dramatic seasonal display. It's commonly featured in Japanese landscape design and carries cultural importance. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe tubular red flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators during late summer when nectar sources are scarce, supporting local insect populations. [source]
Traditional Asian Medicine (Research Only)
MedicinalLycoris species have been studied in traditional Asian medicine for potential pharmaceutical applications, though the plant is toxic and should not be self-administered. All uses remain in research phase. [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 flowers at the base when fully open for floral arrangements; they typically last 5-7 days in a vase. Do not harvest foliage before it naturally dies back, as the plant needs this time to store energy in the bulb. Bulbs can be dug up after foliage completely dies back if division or relocation is desired.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lycoris incarnata exhibits a unique phenological pattern called 'hysteranthous' flowering, where flowers appear before the leaves emerge—the foliage doesn't appear until after flowering concludes, a reverse of typical plant growth patterns.
- 🌱 In Japanese culture, red spider lilies are traditionally associated with cemeteries and are sometimes called 'flowers of hell' due to this cultural symbolism, though in China they're considered auspicious symbols of good fortune.
- 🌱 The dramatic red color and spider-like form of the flowers serve as a visual lure for specific insect pollinators in its native Asian habitat, representing an evolved adaptation to local pollinator populations.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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