Perennials
Lycoris squamigera
Surprise lily
Also known as: Naked ladies · Resurrection lily · Magic lily
Fragrant pink flowers appear on bare stems after the spring leaves have faded. A long-lived bulb for mixed borders and woodland edges. Allow foliage to fade naturally before removing.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun to part shade
- Mature size
- 18–24 in. tall × 18–24 in. wide
- Water
- Moderate in growth; less while dormant
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 5–9a
- Bloom
- Fragrant pink trumpets in late summer.
Sizes & prices
- #1$16.99
- Mum Pan$19.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Drought
- Listed as tolerant; water moderately during active growth.
- Wet soil
- Needs drainage; reduce watering during dormancy.
- Deer & rabbits
- Resistant, not browse-proof.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Attracts
- Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Keep in mind: Do not eat the bulbs; they contain toxic alkaloids.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Spring leaves fade before flower stems emerge.
Growing & care
- Division
- Dislikes disturbance; flowering may pause after division.
- Placement
- Mix with other perennials to cover the dormant gap.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: Yoko Nekonomania · CC BY 2.0
Image notes: Surprise lily flowers. species photograph; resized by Wikimedia, uncropped.
Reviewed September 19, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.