St Bernard's lily
Anthericum liliago · Asparagaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant st bernard's lily: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Foliage
- Deciduous, linear and graceful
- Flowering
- May to July, white star-shaped flowers
- Mature size
- 40 to 60 cm tall, 30 to 40 cm spread
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Mediterranean regions and Southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light to gravelly
Care
Exposure
Plant the St. Bernard's lily in full sun or partial shade to obtain generous flowering. Light afternoon shade improves flower longevity in very hot regions. Avoid full shade, which slows growth and flowering.
Soil and drainage
This plant requires well-drained, non-waterlogged soil. Prepare the soil with sand or gravel if you have heavy or clay soil. Anthericum appreciates dry to moderately moist soil in summer.
Watering
Water regularly during establishment and spring growth. Once established, it tolerates relative drought well. In summer, maintain moderate moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing
A spring application of flowering fertilizer is more than enough. St. Bernard's lily is not demanding. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming. In autumn, cut dry foliage back to ground level. Divide clumps every 3 to 4 years in autumn or early spring to rejuvenate the plant.
Health and pests
St. Bernard's lily is rarely subject to diseases. Beware of root rot in case of stagnant moisture. Well-drained soil and good air circulation are generally sufficient. No major pests threaten it.
Did you know?
Its common name 'St. Bernard's lily' comes from Greek and Latin, a reference to a spider: the plant was said to resemble the legs of this arachnid. Long ago, people even believed its roots could cure spider bites, hence the connection to the name. This plant was appreciated in historical botanical gardens of the 17th century for its airy habit and delicate flowers.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.