Hymenocallis littoralis
Hymenocallis littoralis (Jacq.) Salisb.
Beach Spider Lily is a stunning bulbous perennial with exotic white spider-like flowers and intense vanilla fragrance. Native to coastal Latin America, it thrives in seaside gardens and tropical landscapes worldwide.
Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis family)
Mid-summer to late fall (June-November), can bloom year-round in tropics
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: daphnes and snow-on-the-mountains also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The Beach Spider Lily's name "Hymenocallis" means "membraned beauty" in Greek, referring to its distinctive staminal cup. "Littoralis" means growing by the seashore, reflecting its natural coastal habitat. The plant represents the exotic beauty of tropical coastlines and has been widely cultivated and naturalized throughout tropical regions worldwide. Its ability to thrive in sandy, salty coastal conditions makes it a symbol of resilience and adaptation. The flowers' resemblance to spiders adds to their mysterious allure, while the intensifying vanilla fragrance at night creates an enchanting evening garden experience. The plant's inclusion in fire-resistant landscaping lists demonstrates its practical value beyond ornamental beauty.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (prefers bright light)
Water
Moderate to high moisture needs, keep soil consistently moist during growing season
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Moist, Organically rich, Tolerates poor soil, Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs with neck slightly above soil surface
Excellent for coastal sites with salt tolerance
Thrives in humid tropical climates
Evergreen foliage in frost-free areas
Foliage dies back with first frost
Hardy in zones 8-11, dig bulbs in colder climates
Can be grown in large containers
Divide clumps every few years
Fragrance intensifies at night
Generally disease and pest-free
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Coastal and seaside gardens
- Tropical and subtropical landscapes
- Container plantings
- Border plantings
- Mass plantings for dramatic effect
- Fragrance gardens
- Low flammability landscaping
Traditional Uses
- Used in traditional medicine in some cultures
- Seeds are succulent (90 percent water by weight)
- Various plant parts used in folk medicine
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Hymenocallis littoralis
Why is it called spider lily?
The name comes from the flower's exotic appearance with extremely long, slender petals radiating from a central cup, resembling a spider's legs. The unique shape is unlike most other flowers.
Is Hymenocallis littoralis fragrant?
Yes, Beach Spider Lily has a strong vanilla fragrance that intensifies at night, attracting nighttime pollinators like moths. The scent is one of its most appealing characteristics.
Can beach spider lily grow in salt water?
While it cannot grow in salt water, Beach Spider Lily is quite salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal gardens with salt spray and sandy, brackish conditions, making it ideal for seaside plantings.
How do you grow Hymenocallis littoralis?
Plant bulbs in well-drained, organically rich soil in full sun to partial shade. Keep soil consistently moist during growing season. Hardy in zones 8-11; in colder zones, grow in containers or dig bulbs before frost.
Is beach spider lily evergreen?
In frost-free tropical and subtropical climates, Beach Spider Lily is evergreen with glossy foliage year-round. The foliage dies back with the first frost in cooler regions.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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