Rose spider lily (Lycoris rosea)

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Lycoris rosea - Rose Spider Lily Guide

With its delicate rose-pink blossoms appearing in late summer, Lycoris rosea brings vibrant color to shady habitats. This bulbous perennial is highly valued for its striking appearance and specialized ecological niche.

Originating from eastern China, it thrives in moist, rocky crevices. The species remains a fascinating subject of botanical study due to its evolutionary relationships and distinct morphology.

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 rosea (Rose spider lily)

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Morphology

The underground bulb of Lycoris rosea produces narrow, strap-like leaves that mature and die back before the flowering stem emerges. During the late summer months, the leafless flower stalk rises to bear an umbel of rose-colored flowers with slightly wavy tepals.

These elegant, recurved petals surround prominent, protruding stamens that facilitate pollination by insects. The root system consists of contractile roots that help pull the bulb to its optimal depth in the soil.

Flowering season

Late summer to early autumn

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Applications

This species is primarily studied for its pharmaceutical potential, as members of the Amaryllidaceae family contain bioactive alkaloids. It also plays an ecological role in stabilizing soil on moist slopes and rocky outcrops within its native range.

Botanists and collectors value the plant for ex-situ conservation efforts and genetic research.

Interesting facts

A fascinating aspect of Lycoris rosea is its suspected hybrid origin, possibly arising from natural crosses between other Lycoris species. In its native Chinese habitats, it is known as the rose spider lily due to the distinctive shape and color of its petals.

The plant exhibits a synchronized flowering pattern, with blossoms appearing rapidly after late summer rains. Like other spider lilies, it flowers on bare stems without any foliage present.

Geography of distribution

  • Zhejiang
  • Jiangsu

Sources

  • POWO: Plants of the World Online (Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew)
  • WFO: World Flora Online
  • Tropicos: Missouri Botanical Garden
  • GBIF: Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Orange Spider Lily

Orange Spider Lily

Lycoris sanguinea

An orange-flowered deciduous perennial native to East Asia, famous for its toxic bulbs and synchronized …

Read more →