Fawn Lily
scoliopus bigelovii
Also known as: ["Bigelow's Fawn Lily","Slipper Orchid Lily"]
Overview
A deciduous perennial native to the Pacific Northwest, known for its mottled foliage and unique, nodding flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Scoliopus |
| Botanical Name: | Scoliopus bigelovii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or shaded container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist, but never waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, acidic soil with plenty of organic matter, such as a mix of peat, loam, and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year during dormancy or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning, removing only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; prefers dappled light or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily, especially during spring and summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter conditions to prevent leaf burn. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer. For indoor placement, use north-facing windows or shaded areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained woodland soil
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, ideally 5.5–6.5.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Cool temperatures preferred, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure below 28°F (-2°C).
Keep cool in summer; protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common, though division of mature clumps can also be attempted.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect fresh seeds, sow shallowly, keep moist, provide warmth.
- For division, carefully separate clumps and replant immediately.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing and temperatures are mild.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a blend of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; division may benefit from a mild rooting hormone.
Timeline
Seeds may take several weeks to months to germinate; division can establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, sterile soil, misting bottle, sharp knife (for division).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist; protect young plants from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead foliage, avoid over-pruning, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot, ensuring adequate drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh the soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure proper drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the foliage. Allow water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand for better aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or failure to flower in overly cold conditions.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced vigor and potential frost damage if temperatures drop below tolerance.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter, such as mulching or moving containers to sheltered locations. Avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Increase humidity through misting or a pebble tray, provide shade during peak heat, and ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble 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 consume parts of Scoliopus bigelovii, particularly the roots and bulbs. The toxicity is not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Scoliopus bigelovii roots and bulbs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicScoliopus bigelovii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The roots and bulbs are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Scoliopus bigelovii require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade and thrives in woodland conditions.
Q: Is this plant suitable for container gardening?
A: It is best grown in the ground due to its specific soil and moisture requirements.
Q: Does it have any medicinal uses?
A: There are no widely documented medicinal uses for Scoliopus bigelovii.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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