Red spider lilies (Lycoris radiata) are striking autumn-blooming plants, cherished for their vibrant red flowers that appear on leafless stems. While primarily known for propagation through bulbs, many gardeners are curious about growing these unique plants from seeds, exploring an alternative to the common bulb division method.
Understanding Red Spider Lily Seeds
A common point of confusion regarding red spider lily propagation is the availability of viable seeds. The majority of cultivated Lycoris radiata plants, particularly the widespread Lycoris radiata var. radiata often found in the United States, are sterile triploids. This means they possess three sets of chromosomes, which generally prevents them from producing viable seeds. These sterile forms reproduce exclusively through vegetative means, such as forming new bulbs.
A smaller, less common variety, Lycoris radiata var. pumila, is a diploid form that can produce seeds. Seed pods, if they form, are typically green and elongated, eventually turning yellowish-brown and splitting open when mature. The viable seeds inside are small, black, and have a glossy appearance. Growing red spider lilies from seed is considered uncommon and challenging due to the sterility of many common varieties and the specific conditions required for seed production and germination.
Collecting and Storing Red Spider Lily Seeds
If you have a fertile, diploid red spider lily that produces seed pods, collecting them requires careful timing. Seed pods are ready for harvest when they turn yellow or brown and begin to split open. Gently open the dried pods to reveal the small, black seeds.
After collection, remove any remaining pod material. While some sources suggest immediate planting for freshness, if short-term storage is necessary, keep them in a cool, dry, and dark environment to maintain viability. Red spider lily seeds do not store well long-term and generally lack a dormant period, making freshness a significant factor for successful germination.
Planting Red Spider Lily Seeds
Plant red spider lily seeds as soon as they mature, typically in late spring or early summer, as their freshness directly impacts germination rates. Prepare a well-draining seed-starting mix, such as a blend designed for cacti or standard potting soil amended with perlite or coarse sand. Moisten the soil thoroughly before sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Sow the small, black seeds on the surface of the prepared soil, pressing them in lightly without covering, as they require light for germination. Space the seeds evenly to allow for initial leaf growth. Place the container in a warm location that receives bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sun. Maintain consistent moisture by keeping the soil damp but not waterlogged, often achieved through misting. Germination can be slow and erratic, taking several weeks or even months.
Challenges and Expectations When Growing From Seed
Growing red spider lilies from seed presents challenges compared to bulb propagation. Germination rates can be low and unpredictable, even with fresh seeds. A significant factor is the extended time required for a seedling to mature and produce its first bloom, which can range from five to seven years or longer. This lengthy timeline contrasts sharply with bulbs, which typically flower within one to two years of planting.
Another consideration is the uncertainty of bloom color and characteristics when growing from seed. Offspring may not come true to the parent plant, leading to variations in flower appearance. Cultivating red spider lilies from seed is generally considered a project for patient and dedicated gardeners, more of a challenging experiment than a reliable method for rapid propagation or achieving quick, predictable blooms.