Bush Lily
crinum macowanii
Also known as: ["Bush Lily","Bush Crinum"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with large, strap-like leaves and clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped flowers, native to southern Africa.
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 macowanii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or large indoor pot in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves yellow and die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only dead or unsightly parts.
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 plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near a bright window but out of direct afternoon sun. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage deep roots; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain excess water; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions, ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth. Reduce watering in cooler periods.
Protect from frost; water early in the day; adjust care based on seasonal temperature shifts.
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 fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of bulbs. Bulb division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy bulb or stem.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant bulb or cutting.
- Maintain humidity.
- Monitor for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand. Bulbs can be planted directly in soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up rooting for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Bulb division: roots establish in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings: roots in 4–8 weeks, full establishment in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil mix, humidity dome (optional).
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools. Trim flower stalks just above the foliage.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and appearance. Prune spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut dead/damaged parts; remove spent flowers; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter.
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 every 2–3 years or when the bulb becomes pot-bound. Repotting rejuvenates growth and prevents root crowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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 slightly before the next watering. Early morning watering is ideal to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration. Prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death.
Solution: Move indoors or to a sheltered location in cold weather. Mulch around the base to insulate roots. Avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering. High temperatures may increase water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation. Mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring-summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Crinum macowanii, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress. The bulb poses the greatest risk due to its alkaloid concentration.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Crinum macowanii by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The bulb is especially dangerous due to its high alkaloid content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCrinum macowanii contains toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects upon ingestion. The bulb is particularly toxic due to its high concentration of alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crinum macowanii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crinum macowanii?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Crinum macowanii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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