Chilean rain lily
habranthus robustus
Also known as: ["pink fairy lily","pink rain lily"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial plant native to South America, known for its delicate pink flowers that appear after rainfall.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Habranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Habranthus robustus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, or as a potted plant in a bright location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or bulb-specific potting mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove yellowing leaves in late summer or fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; avoid cutting into healthy foliage or bulb.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but prefers partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon heat in hot climates; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when plant enters dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or bulb division; bulb division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water lightly until established.
Best Time: Late summer or early fall when bulbs are actively growing after dormancy.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) for optimal rooting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for bulb division; moist sphagnum moss for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings but is optional.
Timeline
Bulbs establish in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 4–6 weeks and may take several months to mature.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Allow bulb offsets to callus for a day before planting; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stalks at the base; trim dead leaves with clean cuts close to the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flower stalks and dead foliage to encourage bulb development.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune only dead or spent parts; avoid cutting into bulb or healthy foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after dormancy ends and before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the previous one; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant from pot; loosen tangled roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; check for pests during repotting; ensure pot has drainage holes; water sparingly until plant re-establishes.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply and slowly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface is dry to the touch, typically every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter when dormant.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or soft, mushy bulbs in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing root damage and potential bulb rot if prolonged below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; insulate bulbs with mulch in ground; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower bud drop, and scorched foliage if not provided adequate water and shade.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply in early morning to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with bulb or roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the alkaloids in Habranthus robustus, which can cause significant gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The plant poses a notable risk to feline health if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids in Habranthus robustus can be toxic to dogs, potentially leading to gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances. In severe cases, ingestion may cause more serious systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHabranthus robustus contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Habranthus robustus require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, thriving in well-drained soil.
Q: How often does it bloom?
A: It typically blooms after rainfall, often in late summer or early fall.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires adequate drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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