Giant Crinum Lily (Crinum asiaticum)

Giant Crinum Lily

Crinum asiaticum

Its fragrant white blooms rise like celestial trumpets above lush foliage. Bulbous perennial ornamental; common names: Giant Crinum Lily, Poison Bulb.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect to partial sun; tolerate full sun in cooler climates, avoid intense midday sun in hot tropical regions
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering during winter dormancy
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent bulb damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Long, strap-like glossy green leaves up to 1.5 m long, arranged in basal rosettes
  • Flower: Fragrant funnel-shaped white flowers in dense umbellate clusters on tall scapes
  • Bulb: Large fleshy underground tunicated bulb storing water and nutrients
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist, avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn and bulb damage

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odor buildup
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower scapes at the base to conserve bulb energy for future growth
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at their basal attachment points
  • Divide overcrowded bulb clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic: contains lycorine alkaloids causing vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy

Humans: Ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset, mouth irritation, and nausea

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Associated with tropical garden elegance; historically used in traditional Asian medicine (not recommended for consumption due to toxicity)

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; fragrant cut flower for floral arrangements