Blooming This Week (2nd/3rd week of August):

Lycoris squamigera

This hardy bulb, which goes by a plethora of entertaining common names (including Surprise Lily, Magic Lily, Resurrection Lily, Naked Ladies, Hardy Amaryllis and Spider Lily), is an outstanding addition to the late summer & fall garden. Aptly named, the 18"-24" leafless stems arise in August as if out of nowhere and are topped by large rose-lilac flowers with subtle blue overtones. After blooming they disappear again until spring when the strap-like foliage emerges early before going into summer dormancy in June, to be followed by the flowering stems again in late summer. This is one of those plants that passers-by will stop and knock on your door to ask about!

Lycoris is happiest growing in deciduous shade but will also tolerate full sun. It increases nicely once established. Excess moisture during the summer dormancy period should be avoided.