St. Bruno's Lily (Paradisea liliastrum)

St. Bruno's Lily

Paradisea liliastrum

Elegant spires of white blooms rise like starry candles above grassy foliage. Herbaceous perennial; common name: St. Bruno's Lily.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; prefers morning sun and afternoon shade in hot summer climates to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; tolerates cool summer temperatures, avoid prolonged exposure to heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, grass-like basal leaves, dark green, up to 60 cm long
  • Flower: Fragrant, trumpet-shaped white flowers arranged in terminal racemes, 6–8 cm long
  • Stem: Erect, unbranched flowering stalks arising from basal clumps
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and blooming periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced diluted liquid feed once monthly. Use a low-nitrogen feed to promote flower production rather than excessive foliage growth

Composted eggshell powder:Mix 1 tbsp of crushed, fully composted eggshell powder into the top 5 cm of soil in early spring to boost calcium levels and support strong stem growth; avoid direct contact with plant roots
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to basal foliage and root growth
  • Trim yellowing or damaged basal leaves in early spring to maintain a tidy clump appearance
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in autumn to promote healthy growth and flowering
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements; fragrant blooms support pollinators like bees and butterflies