Rain Lily - Yellow
Rain Lily - Yellow
Plant Type: perennial
Plant Height: 6-12 inches
Spread: 6-12 inches
Flower Color: bright yellow
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade
Description:
Yellow Rain Lily, known botanically as Zephyranthes citrina, is a perennial bulbous plant renowned for its vibrant, cheerful blooms. Native to areas of Central and South America, this plant is a favorite in gardens for its striking flowers that often emerge following rain, hence the common name "Rain Lily."
The most striking feature of Yellow Rain Lily is its bright yellow, funnel-shaped flowers. These blooms appear on slender stalks rising above the foliage, usually after a significant rainfall, creating a delightful and unexpected display. The flowers are ephemeral, typically lasting only a few days, but the plant can produce multiple blooms in succession, particularly during late summer and early fall.
In addition to its showy flowers, Yellow Rain Lily has narrow, grass-like green leaves that form a clump at the base. These leaves are evergreen in warmer climates, providing year-round interest in the garden.
Yellow Rain Lily is versatile and can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and as a ground cover. It's also well-suited for naturalizing in lawns and meadows, and in colder climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.
This plant prefers well-drained soil and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Overall, Yellow Rain Lily is valued for its bright yellow flowers, ease of care, and adaptability to various garden conditions. Its ability to provide bursts of color following rain showers makes it a delightful addition to any garden, adding a touch of surprise and vibrancy to the landscape.
Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Rain Lily - Yellow
Planting Guide:
- Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and vibrant blooms)
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
- Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth and air circulation
- Planting Depth: Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep, ensuring they are well-covered with soil
- Support: Rain Lily - Yellow is a low-maintenance bulb plant that requires no staking
Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting:
- Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the soil and activate the bulbs
- Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
- Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session for deep watering
When is the Plant Established?
- Timeframe: Rain Lily - Yellow is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil
Watering Once Established:
- Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
- Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.
Drip Irrigation Setup:
- Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 6-12 inches away from the base of the plant for even watering
- Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
- Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
- Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks