St. Bernard's Lily
anthericum ramosum
Also known as: ["St. Bernard's Lily","Babington's Asphodel"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with grass-like leaves and star-shaped white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Anthericum |
| Botanical Name: | Anthericum ramosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when growth becomes unruly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when growth slows.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide rhizomes.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep humidity high with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip faded flowers at the base; trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or drooping in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, and increases susceptibility to diseases in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Anthericum ramosum, particularly the roots and bulbs, due to the presence of saponins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe saponins in Anthericum ramosum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The toxicity is generally low but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnthericum ramosum contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation upon ingestion. The effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anthericum ramosum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Anthericum ramosum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Anthericum ramosum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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