Eremurus × isabellinus 'Cleopatra'
foxtail lily bulb
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, sandy, well-drained soil, including alkaline soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: June to July
- Hardiness: fully hardy
- Bulb size: grade I (ie. the largest)
Stately, slender spikes packed with burnt orange flowers soar above strap-shaped, bluish-green leaves in early and mid summer. This spectacular foxtail lily makes a bold statement towards the back of a sunny, well-drained border. It's best partnered with late-flowering perennials and tall grasses which help to mask the plant's short-lived foliage.
Foxtail lilies need to be planted in fertile but well-drained soil with the crown not far below soil level. They start to grow in late winter and spring, gathering their strength before they produce their towering flower spikes in summer. Each flower spike has hundreds of flowers which open from the bottom upwards, creating a stunning effect. They thrive in the sunniest spot in the garden, especially if the base of the plant isn't shaded as this can decrease the number of flowering spikes produced. - Garden care: In September every three to five years carefully lift and divide congested clumps. Replant the strongest crown on a layer of sharp grit, spreading out the roots and covering them with a thin (5cm/2in) layer of soil. In frost-prone areas cover with a dry mulch of fern leaves.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten