Tuberose Lily
crinum viviparum
Also known as: ["Viviparous Crinum","Bulbous Lily"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with large, strap-like leaves and fragrant, white flowers, known for its ability to reproduce vegetatively through bulbils.
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 viviparum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. A mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only, focusing on removing unsightly or diseased leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in filtered light outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors. Protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
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-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain excess moisture; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration around roots.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in stable, warm conditions. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Vegetative propagation via bulb offsets (pups) or bulbils. Rarely propagated by seed due to slow germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate mature offsets from the parent bulb.
- Allow to callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water lightly until established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and offsets are mature enough to be separated.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb offsets, but rooting hormone can be used for bulbils for faster rooting.
Timeline
Offsets may establish in 2–4 weeks with proper care. Bulbils may take 4–8 weeks to root and several months to grow into mature bulbs.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, small pots, well-draining soil mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure offsets have roots or bulbils before separating; plant at the same depth as the parent bulb; maintain warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into the bulb itself.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent disease.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp scissors, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; cut at the base; dispose of removed foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter) with drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; loosen compacted roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the bulb is pot-bound or every 3–4 years. Overcrowding can encourage bulb division and propagation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle bulb gently; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis (browning/tissue death).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration. Prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; reduce watering; protect from frost with a cover or indoor placement.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering. May lead to dehydration if water demand exceeds supply.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; 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.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Crinum viviparum, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal and potential systemic effects. The bulb poses a higher risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Crinum viviparum by dogs can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The bulb is especially hazardous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCrinum viviparum contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The bulb is particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Crinum viviparum?
A: It can be propagated through bulbils that form on the plant or by dividing the bulbs.
Q: Is Crinum viviparum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Crinum viviparum?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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