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BulbsConservatory Greenhouse

Crinum × powellii

swamp lily

A bulbous perennial forming a tuft of strap-shaped, bright green leaves, with umbels of fragrant, trumpet-shaped light pink flowers to 12cm in width, on stems to 1.5m, from late summer

Synonyms
Crinum × powellii 'Roseum'
Crinum × powellii pink

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Green
Autumn Pink Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Crinum are bulbous perennials, sometimes evergreen, with umbels of showy, fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers held well above the strap-shaped leaves

Name status

Correct

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. Keep neck of the bulb just proud of the soil

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers with bottom heat when ripe or by offsets in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Sub-tropical
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free but young growth may be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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