Atamasco Lily

Zephyranthes atamasca

Physical Characteristics

Zephyranthes atamasca is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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

Southern N. America - Missouri and Virginia to Florida.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; East Wall. By. South Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - cooked[2, 22, 46, 61]. It is used as an emergency food when better foods are in short supply[61, 161]. The bulb is up to 3cm long[235]. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The bulb contains toxic compounds[62]. Horses are said to get the staggers (a cerebrospinal disease) from eating the leaves and bulbs[207].