Hunan Spider Lily (Lycoris hunanensis)

Hunan surprise lily

Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Lycoris hunanensis: Guide to the Hunan Red Spider Lily

Thriving on the damp riverbanks of Hunan province in China, Lycoris hunanensis represents a remarkable botanical find within the Amaryllidaceae family. This perennial bulbous plant was first described by science in 2013 and remains narrowly distributed in its native habitat. Its most captivating feature is the dramatic color transformation of its blossoms as they mature.

As a wild species adapted to specific riparian microclimates, it grows at elevations ranging between 200 and 350 meters. Due to its wild nature and localized distribution, it is not commonly found in commercial cultivation.

Taxonomy

∟ царство Plantae
∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
∟ Angiosperms
∟ monocots
∟ order Asparagales
∟ family Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis family)
∟ subfamily Amaryllidoideae
∟ tribe Lycorideae
∟ genus Lycoris (Spider Lily)
∟ species Lycoris hunanensis (Hunan Spider Lily)

Morphology

The vegetative and reproductive organs of Lycoris hunanensis exhibit distinct features. The underground bulbs are nearly spherical, measuring 3 to 5 centimeters in diameter and 4 to 6 centimeters in height, protected by a dark purple-brown epidermis. It produces 5 to 7 sword-shaped, dark green leaves that emerge in September, measuring up to 39 centimeters in length with acute tips.

Its flowering stem reaches a height of 50 to 60 centimeters, supporting an umbel of 6 to 7 flowers. The petals undergo a striking color transition: starting as pink in the bud, they open as light yellow and eventually fade to white. The margins of the petals are strongly undulate and recurved, surrounding six white stamens with purplish-red tips.

Flowering season

Late August to September

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Name

Dec

Applications

Currently, Lycoris hunanensis has no significant commercial or agricultural applications. Its primary value lies in botanical research and genetic studies within the genus Lycoris due to its unique color-changing petals. Conservation and preservation of its natural riverbank habitats remain the key focus for local botanists.

Interesting facts

Here are several fascinating details about this unique species:

Color Transition: The petals change color three times during their life cycle, moving from pink buds to light yellow flowers, and finally aging to pure white.
Late Discovery: This species managed to remain hidden from the scientific community until its official description in 2013.
Seasonal Pattern: Unlike many other spring-active bulbs, its leaves do not appear until September, shortly after the late summer flowering period.

Geography of distribution

Hunan, China

Sources

Quan, M.H., Ou, L.J. & She, C.W. (2013). A New Species of Lycoris (Amaryllidaceae) from Hunan, China. Novon 22(3): 307-310.
Plants of the World Online (POWO)