Ismene

The Ismenes or Hymenocallises are beautiful bulbous plants grown in large pots. Also known as "Spider Lily", they grow to be a large size, spreading, bright green, ribbon-like leaves, in the center of which long flower stalks grow. The unique characterisitc of these plants is the beauty of the umbels of white or yellow flowers with 6 linear petals. They do not tolerate temperatures below 5°C (41°F), and so  pot cultivation is inevitable. Ismenes are planted in May, leaving the tip of the bulb exposed at the surface of the soil in a mixture of compost, garden soil, and sand in equal parts. The habitat should be bright without direct sunlight, and the temperature should remain between 18 and 25°C (64.4 and 77°F). There are 40 species, including Hymenocallis festalis and Hymenocallis narcissiflora with fragrant flowers. Ismenes are used in exotic gardens in pots with 3 to 5 bulbs.

Tip: Remove faded inflorescences so that the bulbs can quickly replenish their reserves.