Monday, July 21, 2008

What's Up: Crinum americanum

So many natives are blooming right now! Have you noticed Crinum Lily? It's bloom, white to reddish pink, emits a light, delicate fragrance. The strappy leaves look like those of Amaryllis. Crinum looks a little tropical, but it's actually native to the eastern half of Texas all the way to the Atlantic Coast. Successful in both sun and shade, and dry or moist soil, Crinum adapts well to existing conditions. In sun, it tends to grow more quickly and upright -- almost cylindrical. In shade, however, it stays closer to the ground, more round and squatty. Superb performing summer-blooming perennial.

All lilies are not made equally for our climatic conditions, so be sure you get the right plant when looking for Crinum Lily. Its botanical name is Crinum americanum, and you can find them in 1- or 3-gallon size at Shades of Green Nursery in Frisco. Other nurseries that carry natives are: Rohde's in Garland, North Haven in Dallas, Petal Pusher's in Cedar Hill and Green Mama's in North Richland Hills.

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