Rain Lily
zephyranthes carinata
Also known as: ["Fairy Lily","Pink Rain Lily"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with delicate pink flowers that emerge after rainfall, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Zephyranthes |
| Botanical Name: | Zephyranthes carinata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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 mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when foliage turns yellow/brown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place indoors near east-facing windows or under dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot weekly for even growth; shield from intense midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
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 waterlogged soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temps; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
By bulb division or seed; division is faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate small bulbs from the mother plant.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: After flowering, when bulbs are mature (late spring/early summer).
Environment
Warm, bright location with indirect light and moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Bulbs can be planted immediately and may flower in the next growing season; seeds take 1–2 years to mature.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, clean knife or scissors, small pots.
Quick Tips
Handle bulbs gently to avoid damage; plant at the same depth as the parent bulb.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base after blooming; trim yellowed leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flowers and dead foliage to encourage bulb health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; trim dead leaves; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches wider than the current one with drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs, remove old soil, divide if necessary, replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is dormant or just before active growth.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; plant bulbs at correct depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy (fall/winter).
Soil Improvement
Mix perlite or coarse sand into heavy soils; add compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), stunted growth (heat stress), or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dormancy if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, flowers fade quickly, or bulbs may rot if soil stays too wet in heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; water early morning or late evening; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicZephyranthes carinata is toxic to cats, with the bulbs and flowers containing alkaloids that can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulbs and flowers of Zephyranthes carinata are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects. The alkaloids can cause severe irritation and potential toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicZephyranthes carinata contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often do Zephyranthes carinata bloom?
A: They typically bloom after rainfall, often in late summer or early fall, with flowers lasting for a few days.
Q: Are Rain Lilies toxic to pets?
A: They are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal upset.
Q: Do Rain Lilies require full sun?
A: They prefer partial to full sun but can tolerate some shade, though flowering may be reduced in low light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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