Foxtail Lily, Desert Candle
| When to Plant: | |
| Spring |
| Blooms: | |
| Summer |
| Light Requirements: | |
| Full Sun |
| Plant Height: | ||
| 48-72" | ||
| Hardiness Zones: | |
| Grow as Perennial in zones 6-10. Grow as Annual elsewhere. Find Your Zone |
| Planting Depth: | |
| Varies by type. Ranges from 4-8". |
| Plant Spacing: | |
| Varies by type. Ranges from 12-36". |
| Plant Type: | |
| Tuberous Root |
This native of central Asia is known for its unique, bottle brush flower spires of densely packed blooms that range in colors of orange, pink, white and yellow. These flower spikes reach heights of up to 8-10' tall above large clumps of strap-like foliage.
Its name comes from the Greek words eremia (desert) and oura (tail) for its flower spike.
Plant Eremurus outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed in a full sun location that receives 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day.
The ideal soil is rich and porous and drains well, yet still holds enough water for the roots. If your soil is heavy clay and drains slowly, or very sandy and does not hold water, add organic soil amendments like peat moss or ground bark. Spread a 3-4 inch layer of soil amendment if needed and incorporate into the soil to a depth of 10 inches.
Plant roots 6-8" deep and 12-36" apart depending on type. Cover with soil to where the crown is 1-2 inches below soil level. Water thoroughly at planting. While actively growing, water frequently and thoroughly so that water will reach roots. Mulch to keep the soil cool and to prevent the soil from drying out.
Fertilize during growing period.
Remove foliage after it has completely yellowed and died back.
Tall stalks may need to be staked.
Plant Eremurus in a sheltered location in cooler climates.
Eremurus do not like to be disturbed once planted and are not recommended for containers. Divide Eremurus carefully every 3-4 years in late summer to early fall.
Watch closely in winter during wet periods making sure the plants are not damaged in standing water.
