The Candle Lily plant, with its towering, candle-like flower spikes, offers a striking presence and vertical interest in any garden or home. These impressive plants create a captivating focal point.
What is a Candle Lily Plant?
The Candle Lily plant, scientifically known as Eremurus, is also called Foxtail Lily or Desert Candle. These deciduous perennials die back in winter and re-emerge in spring. Characterized by tall, stately flower spikes reaching 3 to 10 feet, they feature a rosette of strap-shaped, often grey-green leaves at the base.
Densely arranged, small, star-shaped flowers open progressively upwards along the spike. Native to the dry grasslands and semi-deserts of western and central Asia, including regions from Turkey to China.
Caring for Your Candle Lily Plant
Light Needs
Candle Lily plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. While they can tolerate light shade, full sun ensures stronger stems and robust blooms.
Watering Practices
During active growth, especially in dry conditions, water deeply about once a week to hydrate the unique, starfish-like tuberous roots. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause tubers to rot. Once flower spikes fade and foliage yellows, reduce watering significantly; the plant enters dormancy and prefers dry conditions through winter.
Soil and Potting
Candle Lilies require well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Sandy loam is ideal; incorporating organic matter like compost or ground bark improves drainage in heavier soils. Raising the soil level of the planting bed can also enhance drainage. These plants are generally best suited for in-ground planting due to their sensitivity to root disturbance and need for ample space, making them less suitable for long-term container cultivation.
Temperature and Humidity
Candle Lilies are hardy in USDA Zones 5-8, with some varieties tolerating zones 6-11. Their young spring foliage is sensitive to late frosts; protect them with horticultural fabric or a cloche if frost is forecast. In colder climates, planting in a sheltered location also protects tall flower spikes from strong winds.
Fertilizing
Apply a light, low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10 blend) in early spring before new growth appears to support strong development. Too much nitrogen can lead to abundant foliage at the expense of flowering. If plants appear less vigorous or are frost-damaged, a monthly liquid feed with a general fertilizer in late spring and summer can help.
Pruning
After flowers fade, deadhead spent stalks by cutting them at the base. This redirects the plant’s energy from seed production back into the tuber. Allow foliage to remain until it naturally yellows and dies back, as this allows leaves to continue photosynthesis, storing energy for the following season’s blooms.
Propagating Candle Lily Plants
Candle Lilies can be propagated by dividing established clumps or growing from seed. Division is best done after flowering, in late summer or early autumn, once foliage has died down. Gently separate the fleshy, brittle roots, ensuring each section retains a portion of the crown.
Growing from seed takes longer for plants to reach maturity. Sow fresh seeds in autumn, or stored seeds in spring or early summer. Seed-grown plants may take three to five years to flower and often require cold stratification for germination.
Common Candle Lily Plant Issues
Root rot is a common problem, occurring in poorly drained or waterlogged soil. Ensure excellent drainage at planting. Non-blooming plants may suffer from insufficient sunlight, poor drainage, overcrowded tubers, or deep planting. Young shoots are susceptible to late frost damage. Slugs and snails also threaten emerging foliage. Protect new growth with fleece or other deterrents.