Zephyranthes candida

Deciduous bulbous perennial (which can prove to be evergreen in warmer climates) growing up to 20cm in height and indefinite in spread.

Crocus-like white flowers sometimes blushed with pink bloom singly atop upright stems above a tuft of outward-spreading narrow grass-like green leaves. Bloom appears in late summer to early autumn.

Moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in a sheltered site and full sun is preferred. They will tolerate drier soils and part shade once established. Winter protection is beneficial in older areas.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years.

Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. When planting bulbs cover with soil to twice the depth of the bulb and gently firm in. Most bulbous plants require a sunny situation and well-drained soil to grow and flower well. Poorly drained soils can be improved by forming raised beds and incorporating coarse sand or gravel. A light application of slow release fertiliser gives good results, as well as a light dressing of sulphate of potash, which improves flower quality and increases resistance to leaf spotting diseases. Avoid fertilisers which contain blood and bone or are high in nitrogen.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins. This will encourage more vigorous, healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

Choose a fertiliser low in nitrogen as too much will encourage more leaf growth and not many flowers. The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants; check regularly.

Deciduous bulbs must be allowed to complete their full cycle of growth with leaves drying off naturally. If leaves are removed prematurely their nutrients will not be transferred to the storage organs and there will be weaker growth and less flowering next season. Plants will thicken up to produce masses of flowering plants if left in the ground to multiply. Water during summer and autumn to promote and extend the flowering season.

Propagation of this bulb is easy, just lift bulbs after flowering and tease them apart. Either re-plant them where they are to flower or pot them into pots. Even if clumps are divided up to a few small bulbs they will still multiply reasonably quickly to make a good sized new clump.

No serious insect or disease problems. Slugs and snails may, however, eat buds and damage flowers.

Rock Garden

Rain lily is a bulbous perennial that is native to the Rio de la Plata region of South America. In the wild plants often burst into bloom immediately following periods of significant rain hence the common name.