Narrow-leaved foxtail lily
eremurus stenophyllus
Also known as: ["Desert Candle","Foxtail Lily"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial with dense spikes of star-shaped flowers and narrow, linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Xanthorrhoeaceae |
| Genus: | Eremurus |
| Botanical Name: | Eremurus stenophyllus |
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":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring–summer; partial shade in intense summer heat; bright indirect light in winter if grown indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in summer; avoid direct afternoon sun in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for texture.
Temperature
Cool temperatures (50–65°F/10–18°C) during dormancy; moderate warmth (65–75°F/18–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth during growth phase.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop feeding before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root crowns (best method for mature plants).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up rhizomes.
- Clean and divide into sections with healthy roots.
- Replant at the correct depth.
Best Time: Early spring, just before new growth emerges.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F/15–21°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Division establishes quickly in 1–2 weeks; flowering may take 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, clean potting mix.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots and growth points; plant immediately to prevent drying.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back yellowing or dead leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and aesthetics; focus on post-flowering cleanup.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead foliage; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid overly large pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the crown is at soil level; provide ample drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; essential for mature plants to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Prepare new pot and soil; gently lift plant; trim dead roots; replant at correct depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain away; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth (spring–summer), reduce frequency in fall, and keep soil dry in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or stunted growth (heat stress); premature leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and inhibit growth; prolonged cold may lead to rot or death.
Solution: Insulate roots with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch foliage, dehydrate roots, and disrupt flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; cease in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during spring–summer; avoid fertilizing in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEremurus stenophyllus is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicEremurus stenophyllus is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicEremurus stenophyllus is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Eremurus stenophyllus grow?
A: It can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall.
Q: Does it require staking?
A: Yes, due to its height, staking may be necessary to prevent flopping.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions?
A: It thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and requires protection from strong winds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Xanthorrhoeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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