Yellow Rain Lily
zephyranthes citrina
Also known as: ["Yellow Fairy Lily","Yellow Zephyr Lily"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial plant native to South America, known for its bright yellow, lily-like flowers that appear after rain.
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 citrina |
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 waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. A cactus or bulb-specific potting mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when flower stalks begin to yellow and die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only, involving the removal of individual flower stalks or yellowing foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but benefits from partial shade in hot regions to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf burn. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; adjust frequency based on season and weather; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
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; amend with perlite for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, frost-free conditions. Adjust care based on seasonal temperature fluctuations.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding during dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem or bulb division is the most reliable method. Bulbs can be carefully separated and replanted during dormancy or after flowering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate bulbs carefully.
- Plant at shallow depth (1–2 inches).
- Water lightly.
- Place in warm, bright location.
- Monitor for growth.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring, just before the start of the active growing season.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus/succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division, but rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings if taken.
Timeline
Bulbs may flower within the first season if planted promptly. Stem cuttings, if used, typically root in 2–4 weeks under ideal conditions.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Separate bulbs when dormant; plant immediately after division; ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base using clean, sharp scissors or pruners. Avoid cutting into the bulb or healthy foliage.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and tidiness.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut at base; sanitize tools; avoid damaging bulb or foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Carefully remove the plant from its pot; gently tease apart crowded bulbs; trim any dead or damaged roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 2–3 years to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Check for crowded bulbs; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; plant at correct depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at base; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply until it begins to drain from the bottom, ensuring even moisture penetration without waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall/winter to mimic dormancy, providing only occasional moisture to prevent complete desiccation.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or grit to improve drainage. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; failure to flower in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing growth cessation and potential frost damage to tender foliage. Prolonged cold can lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location before frost. Ensure soil is dry before cold spells to reduce root rot risk. Apply a layer of mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and premature flowering cessation. High temperatures combined with drought stress may lead to dehydration and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency to compensate for evaporation; ensure good air circulation to reduce humidity stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant period; flush soil periodically.
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 when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe bulbs of Zephyranthes citrina are mildly toxic to cats if ingested, leading to mild gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms. The plant is generally safe for cats when not ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe bulbs of Zephyranthes citrina are mildly toxic to dogs if ingested, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset and other mild symptoms. The plant is generally safe for dogs when not ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe bulbs of Zephyranthes citrina contain toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The plant is generally considered non-toxic to humans when handled, but ingestion of the bulbs should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often do Zephyranthes citrina bloom?
A: They typically bloom after rain showers, often in late summer or early fall.
Q: Are Zephyranthes citrina plants toxic to pets?
A: They are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Zephyranthes citrina?
A: They thrive in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and are drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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