Plant Profile: Habranthus

Habaranthus, commonly known as rain lilies, is a genus of bulbs that bloom in the summer. These delicate bulbs cannot withstand temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They typically flower from late spring to autumn, triggered by rainfall. In regions with colder climates, it is advisable to cultivate them in pots that can be kept free from frost during the winter months. When planting rain lilies, they should be spaced 6 inches apart and placed at a depth of 3 inches, ensuring that the tops of the bulbs are level with the soil surface. Their blooming patterns can be unpredictable, as they rely on rainfall, but it is possible for them to flower multiple times throughout the summer.

To maintain healthy growth, large clusters of bulbs should be divided every few years, ideally into groups of three or more. The only pests known to affect rain lily leaves are snails and slugs.