Cardwell Lily (Proiphys amboinensis)

Cardwell Lily

Proiphys amboinensis

Its white star blooms bring festive warmth to shaded gardens. Bulbous perennial flowering plant; common names: Cardwell Lily, Northern Christmas Lily.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect or dappled shade; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch delicate foliage
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperate to tropical conditions; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Broad, glossy dark green lanceolate leaves up to 60 cm long, arranged in basal clumps
  • Flower: Fragrant white star-shaped blooms in umbels of 10–20 flowers, held on tall, upright scapes
  • Bulb: Underground tunicate bulb up to 10 cm in diameter, storing nutrients for dormancy
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn as growth slows for dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching to avoid over-fertilization
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower scapes at the base after blooming to redirect energy to bulb development
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves close to the bulb to maintain a tidy clump
  • Divide overcrowded bulb clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to promote healthy growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

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

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements