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Genus Hymenocallis (Spider lily, Sacred lily of the Incas)

Hymenocallis Hymenocallis narcissiflora Photo/Illustration: David Cavagnaro
hy-men-oh-KAL-lis Common Name: Spider lily, Sacred lily of the Incas Synonyms: Ismene
These bulbous perennials in the Amaryllis family have unusual flowers that look like a narcissus's cup surrounded by streamers. The effect is that of a spider with long dangling legs. Some species are heavily scented.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Dramatic flowers with a spidery appearance.
 Care: Grow deciduous species in full sun or part shade after a dry dormancy. Evergreen plants like damp, fertile soil in the shade.
 Propagation: Divide clumps in winter, or start new plants from offsets or from fresh, ripe seed.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Hymenocallis

Hymenocallis narcissiflora Hymenocallis narcissiflora
(Peruvian daffodil) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This bulb blooms in early summer with striking, sweetly-scented white and yellow flowers that appear on leafless stems up to 24 inches tall. Petals curve up to accent a daffodil-like cup, sometimes with green-striped tubes. Peruvian daffodil has long, strap-shaped, arching, dark green leaves.