Lycoris radiata 
(Red Spider Lily, Surprise Lily)

Origin:  Native to China, Japan
Family:  Liliaceae
Light:  Sun-part shade
Height:  1-1.5'
Spacing:  6-9"
Blooms:  Showy, red, spidery, on 15" tall spike, late Summer
Foliage:  Herbaceous, blue-green, smooth, strappy
Soil:  Well-drained, alkaline
Water:  Regular
Uses:  Cut flowers, borders, containers
Propagation:  Bulb divisions (In Spring)
Pests/Disease:  None

Comments:  Lycoris radiata or Red Spider Lily or Surprise Lily is a perennial bulbous plant with a vigorous, clumping growth habit.  lt is a native of China and Japan.  In late Summer, Lycoris radiata bears eye-catching red spidery blossoms on 15"long naked stems.   The cut flowers make excellent floral arrangements. Red Spider Lily has herbaeous blue-green, smooth strappy leaves which appears after the flowers have faded and dies back in Spring.  Surprise Lily bulb divisions can be done at this time.  It is performs best in well-drained ssandy loamy soil in a sunny to part shade location.  Red Spider Lily is low maintenance and multiplies easily.  Mass plant Lycoris radiata for a surprise splendid looking border.  Surprise Lily can also be container cultivated.  What a delight to be surprised by this terrific show stopper.  

USDA Zones:  7-9