Spider Lily

Lycoris sanguinea

Physical Characteristics

Lycoris sanguinea is a BULB growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

South Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - cooked. It is used as a source of starch[105, 177]. The bulb is 2.5cm in diameter[200]. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The bulb contains toxins and must be leached before it is used for food[105].