September Plant of the Month

Zephyranthes 'Yolkster' -rain lily

by Adrienne Roethling,

Director of Curation and Mission Delivery

Zephyranthes are summer flowering, perennial bulbs native to the Americas.  There are dozens of species as well as hundreds of introduced varieties offering a wide variety of colors.  Below is a great link to explore the diversity within the genus Zephyranthes and its cousin, Habranthus.

            Rain lilies are commonly known as such because of their response in blooming profusely after summer rains.  Some native Zephyranthes begin blooming as early as March and April in NC but many species and hybrids bloom throughout the summer months.  Z. ‘Yolkster’ has emerald green, grass-like leaves that grow to 12” tall.  After summer rains, expect numerous, bright yellow lily-like flowers to explode for several days afterwards.  Bulbs multiply over time providing a carpet ideal for the edge of a border.  Grows best in full sun with good drainage and will do equally well in containers.  May need to protect them in winter.  

Click here to see more!

            Join or Renew your garden membership for the month of September and your name will be included in a drawing for a complimentary division of Zephyranthes ‘Yolkster’.