Cardiocrinum giganteum
giant Himalayan lily
A perennial to 2m in height, with leaves to 30cm across, and terminal racemes of fragrant, trumpet-shaped white flowers marked with purple within the mouth
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Liliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Cardiocrinum are large bulbous perennials with heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers resembling lilies, folowed by erect oblong seed capsules. Monocarpic, the bulbs dying after flowering
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Himalayas to China & Myanmar
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, deep, humus-rich, fertile soil. Intolerant of waterlogging and may need some protection from frosts in colder areas. Mulch and feed regularly. Intolerant of hot or dry sites. Dried seed heads can be used in flower arrangements
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sowing in deep pans with bottom heat, or from offsets after flowering. May take up to 7 years to flower from seed; offsets may take 4-5 years to flower
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be damaged by slugs
Diseases
May be affected by a virus
Get involved
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