Crinum moorei - Natal lily

Crinum moorei is a fairly hardy perennial bulbous plant that produces large clusters of fragrant flowers resembling gracefully inclined white lilies in summer. The foliage is reminiscent of corn leaves and usually disappears during flowering. Its exotic and slender appearance is perfect for enhancing a garden that is considered too traditional. It is easy to grow in shade and prefers loose and well-drained soils.

Crinum moorei is a bulbous plant belonging to the amaryllidaceae family. This species is naturally native to the humid forests of South Africa. The plant grows from a very large bulb measuring 8-10 cm (3-4in) in diameter, with a very long "neck" of 10-20 cm (4-8in) that usually emerges above the ground. In early spring, long light green leaves exceeding 50 cm (20in) in length appear. The flower stalks appear in July or August and reach 80 cm (32in) high. At their tips, 10 large white-pink lily-like flowers open successively, arranged in crowns. These are 10 cm (4in) long star-shaped trumpets. The flowering is pleasantly fragrant. The very wide leaves usually begin to wither when the flowers bloom.

Crinums, or crinole lilies, live for many years (20 or more) without needing to be replanted, forming large clumps over time. With good fertilisation and regular watering in summer, the vegetation becomes very impressive, with a long summer flowering. If the climate in your region is not too harsh, you can plant Crinum moorei in the ground in a shaded area, in a light understory with moist soil. It pairs well with Amaryllis belladonna, toad lilies (Tricyrtis formosana), wild arums, and ferns. If the winter in your region is too severe for this beautiful temperate tropical plant, consider growing it in a pot that can be stored indoors during winter. It will look fabulous when placed in a large and deep pot in the shade on a terrace or near an entrance.