HOW TO GROW THE GIANT HIMALAYAN LILY - Cardiocrinum giganteum

How to grow the Giant Himalayan Lily - Cardiocrinum giganteum - seaforth-garden.blogspot.co.uk

The Cardiocrinum giganteum is truly a king amongst lilies. Commonly known as the giant Himalayan lily, it towers head and shoulders above all other species within the liliaceae family reaching an impressive 3.5 metres in height. Native to the himalayan regions of of India, Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, China and Myanmar (formerly Burma), this impressive specimen is surprisingly hardy and will grow quite happily in the gardens of northern Europe.

How to grow the Giant Himalayan Lily

As big as it may be it will need to be kept in a sheltered location under dappled or semi-shaded conditions, it is particularly intolerant to exposed, sunny positions as the dark-green, heart-shaped leaves will easily scorch. The giant Himalayan lily will do best in a moisture retentive, but free-draining soil.

With such a large growing species preparation is all important. Plant mature pre-packed bulbs in October while pot-grown specimens can be planted at anytime of year. Just try to avoid damaging the root system when planting.

Dig a decent sized hole and then backfill and dig in plenty of leaf-mould and well-rotted manure to the spoil. When planting pre-packed bulbs make sure that the 'nose' of the bulb is set an inch or two just above the soil line. With pot grown specimens keep the soil level at the same point as it is in the pot.

Water freely during dry periods and apply an annual mulch of well rotted farm-manure in the spring. Despite their enormous height, they do not require staking.

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