Pink Rain Lily (Zephyranthes carinata)

Pink Rain Lily

Zephyranthes carinata

Delicate pink blooms burst after rain, like fleeting summer blushes. Bulbous flowering perennial; common name: rosepink zephyr lily.

Full sun
2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily promotes abundant blooming; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot
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Temperature Tolerates mild frost down to 10°C; optimal growth occurs at 18–25°C; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 8°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, grass-like green leaves growing in dense basal clumps
  • Flower: Funnel-shaped pink blooms with six soft petals, 5–7 cm wide, borne on slender, upright scapes
  • Bulb: Small, ovoid underground storage bulb covered in a papery brown tunic
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and blooming periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization once blooming ends to prepare bulbs for dormancy

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush dried, clean eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon per pot around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with leaves
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms promptly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy clump and improve airflow
  • Dig and divide overcrowded bulb clumps in late autumn or early spring to promote healthy growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to lycorine alkaloids; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and tremors

Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, including nausea and vomiting

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes resilience and unexpected joy, as blooms emerge suddenly following rainfall

Usage: Ornamental garden plant for borders, rock gardens, and container displays