Frog's Bit Lily
crinum bulbispermum
Also known as: ["Frog's Bit","Large Crinum"]
Overview
A large, bulbous perennial with strap-like leaves and fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers, native to southern Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Crinum |
| Botanical Name: | Crinum bulbispermum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate climates, or container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or discolored foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that dries out between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or bulb offsets; occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant in new containers at the same depth.
- Water lightly and provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division; optional for seed propagation.
Timeline
Bulbs can be planted immediately; offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; seeds take 1–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife; gloves; pots; well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Ensure offsets have roots before separating; plant at the same depth as the parent; avoid overwatering new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; minimal pruning needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; use clean tools; cut at the base; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot only 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the previous one.
Method
Remove the bulb carefully; trim any dead roots; plant in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the bulb is at the soil surface.
Suggestions
Repot only when the bulb is pot-bound or every 2–3 years; avoid frequent repotting as it prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check for root-bound signs; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; plant bulb at correct depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can damage the bulb.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate the bulb with mulch; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting despite moist soil; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Crinum bulbispermum. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms due to the plant's toxic alkaloid content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crinum bulbispermum can lead to severe toxicosis due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. These compounds can cause gastrointestinal upset and potentially affect the nervous system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCrinum bulbispermum contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects when ingested. The bulb and leaves contain alkaloids and other toxins that disrupt normal cellular functions, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Crinum bulbispermum?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant but thrives with consistent moisture.
Q: Does Crinum bulbispermum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Crinum bulbispermum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
