How to grow spider lily

Spider lilies are in the genus Lycoris, and are not actually lilies but part of the amaryllis family. They are planted in the same way as amaryllis, with the top of the bulb left exposed, and will grow to around 45-70cm tall. There are 25 species, which originate from East Asian countries including Nepal, China and Japan. Of these 25 species, the ones easily available to buy in the UK include red spider lily, Lycoris radiata, which is a striking scarlet species and golden spider lily, Lycoris aurea, with golden yellow flowers. Others such as Lycoris squamigera, the electric blue spider lily, are more likely to be found in the USA.

In Japan spider lilies are known as higanbana because of their use as a memorial flower during higan. Higan is a celebration centred around the autumn equinox, when Buddhists in Japan pay their respects at burial sites. The spider lily is often used as a symbol in Japanese books and films to foreshadow death.

For plant lovers the spider lily is prized for its colourful displays and it can be seen growing en masse in Japanese parks. In the UK, these colourful flowers can be grown in containers or sheltered borders and are a source of nectar for pollinators. All part of the plant are toxic and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

How to grow spider lily

Spider lilies grow best in full sun, in well-drained soil. They are hardy down to -5ºC and will need winter protection in areas where temperatures fall below this.

Where to grow spider lily

Plant spider lilies in free-draining soil or compost, in a sheltered position that gets full sun to light shade. In borders, spider lilies look best planted in groups. In areas that get a lot of summer rain, spider lilies are best grown indoors as they do not thrive in waterlogged borders. They will grow well in borders or rockeries that get plenty of summer sun.

How to plant spider lily

The bulbs should be planted so that top of the bulb is exposed. Plant each bulb 10-15cm apart in April to May for autumn flowers. Cover with fleece if late frost is forecast. Water well once planted.

How to care for spider lily

Water plants while they are growing. After the flowers are over, the leaves emerge and remain throughout winter. Add a layer of dry mulch around plants that are growing outdoors to protect them from cold winter weather.

How to propagate spider lily

Spider lilies will multiply over time and produce offsets (baby bulbs). To propagate spider lilies remove these offsets after flowering is over and replant them.

Pests and diseases

Spider lilies are low maintenance and not susceptible to any particular pests and diseases.

Varieties of spider lily to grow

Lycoris radiata (red spider lily) is the most widely available variety of spider lily, with exotic red flowers from August to September. Height x Spread: 60cm x 30cm

• Buy red spider lily from Crocus

Lycoris aurea (golden spider lily) has bright yellow flowers that are perfect for brightening late summer containers indoors or out. H x S: 70cm x 20cm

• Buy golden spider lily from Farmer Gracy

Lycoris albiflora (white spider lily) is occasionally available, but harder to find than the two species above. Check specialist nurseries late autumn to spring.