Rain Lily

The name "rain lilies" comes from their tendency to send up flushes of flowers within a few days after a soaking rain.

grd1201_atamasco

Plant type: Perennial bulb
Hardiness: USDA Zones 7 to 11 for most species

Elegant and easy to grow, rain lilies liven up gardens with funnel- to goblet-shaped flowers in a range of colors. Different species bloom at different times, so you can enjoy their blooms throughout much of the growing season if you grow several kinds. These bulbs also produce slender green leaves, which stick around even after the short-lived flowers wither. They may be sold under the names "zephyr lilies" and "fairy lilies."

How to use them: Where they're hardy, rain lilies look great tucked into the front of a border, planted along a pathway or added to a rock garden. They're also excellent for interplanting with groundcovers, such as lilyturf (Liriope sp.); rain lilies add a surprising burst of color when they bloom, then their foliage fades into the background. Grow them in generous groupings for a splendid show. Rain lilies also adapt readily to life in pots—an easy way to enjoy them anywhere. North of USDA Zone 7, plant them in the ground, but dig them up in fall for indoor storage, or else buy new bulbs each spring.

Culture: Rain lilies usually prefer full sun but can also take light shade, especially in hot climates. While they're naturally adaptable to alternating wet and dry periods, they can also perform well in evenly moist, well-drained soil. If you grow them in containers, bring them indoors and keep them dry for the winter, then set them outdoors again in spring. Propagate rain lilies by dividing the bulbs. No serious pest or disease problems.

Special notes: These beautiful bulbs adapt readily to life in well-irrigated beds and borders but are also quite forgiving of dry spells—a big plus if you can't (or don't want to) provide supplemental water. They're among the first blooms to make an appearance once the rains return, making them a welcome sight after a drought. Be aware that all parts of the plants can be toxic if ingested.

Selected Species

  • Atamasco lily (Zephyranthes atamasco). White flowers in spring to summer; about 18 inches tall.
  • White rain lily (Z. candida). White flowers in late summer and fall; 12 to 18 inches tall.
  • Yellow rain lily (Z. citrina). Bright yellow blooms, mostly in fall; six to 10 inches tall.
  • Pink rain lily (Z. grandiflora). Flowers in shades of pink, mostly in summer to fall; six to 12 inches tall. Slightly less hardy (usually Zones 8 to 11).

     

  • Next Up

    Learn How to Plant and Grow Spider Lily

    These old-fashioned favorites bring gorgeous blooms when other flowers have faded, popping up like magic in late summer.

    6 Ways to Prevent Animals From Eating Flowering Bulbs

    We’ve got some tips and tricks to keep pesky critters from digging up hardy bulbs like tulips, crocuses and hyacinths.

    How to Grow and Care for Easter Lilies

    The Easter lily is a perennial bulb forever associated with the Easter holiday. Get Easter lily care tips including how to replant Easter lily bulbs outside and how to keep the blooms coming.

    How to Plant, Grow and Care for Hyacinth Flowers

    Sweet-smelling hyacinths are a symbol of spring. Learn how to grow these iconic flowers.

    Growing Siberian Iris

    Discover the tough-as-nails beauty Siberian iris and learn how to use it in your garden.

    How to Grow Lamb's Ears, Nature's Most Touchable Plant

    Learn how to grow and use lamb's ears — great for a children's garden or a sensory garden.

    How to Grow Lily of the Valley

    Dress up your yard’s shady spots with the fragrant blooms of lily of the valley flowers — an old-fashioned favorite.

    Are Mums Perennials?

    Learn which mums you can count on to color your landscape for years to come.

    Planting and Growing Garden Phlox

    Learn how to plant, grow and care for this perennial charmer in your garden.

    How to Grow Dianthus Flowers

    Cottage garden favorites including Sweet William, cheddar pinks and carnations will add an attractive pop of color to any yard.

    Go Shopping

    Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

    On TV

    Follow Us Everywhere

    Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.