Scientific Name
Eremurus spp.
Common Name
Desert Candle, Foxtail Lily
EREMURUS
bungei (stenophyllus), himalaicus, robustus,
Ruiter Hybrids, Shelford Hybrids (Pink, yellow, or white flowers)
A. Flowering Characteristics
Eremurus spp. flowers in very late spring (June). Plants are about 30-70 inches tall with large multiflowered spikes.
B. General Characteristics
1. Origin of species: Asia
2. Common names: Desert Candle, Foxtail Lily
3. Geophyte organ: Tuberous root
4. Hardiness type: Hardy I - Injured at temperatures below 23 degrees F (-5C) when planted.
5. Natural reproductive systems and growth and development requirements: Reproduces by annual tuberous root replacement and seed and requires a warm (68 to 75F) - cool (30 to 40F) - warm (55 to 65 F) annual thermoperiodic cycle.
6. Primary uses: Beds, borders, cut flowers, and exhibition bulbs.
C. Cultural Information
1. Bulb sizes: Number 1
2. Planting density: 12 inches apart, 1 per sq. ft.
3. Planting depth: 5 inches to base.
4. Planting time: Fall
5. Climatic zone habit: 1990 USDA Climatic Zones 4 to 5 with mulch, 6 to 7 without mulch.
6. Light requirements: Full sunlight only.
7. Moisture: Must be planted in an area that retains moisture throughout the year.
8. Animal susceptibility: Not reported
D. Companion Plants:
Anemone x hybrida, Canna, Crocosmia, Eupatorium, Ferns, some Hosta cvs., Ligularia, Lobelia, Thalictrum, Aesculus, Clethra, Corylus, Fothergilla, Itea, Kalmia, Rhododendron spp.

Holland Technical Service Bulletin Number 31 was prepared for the WWW system by A.A. De Hertogh, L.B. Gallitano, M.E. Traer, and A.B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science, NC State University. The information was obtained not only from original research conducted by the authors but also from databases released by other sources. This Bulletin was published by the International Flower Bulb Center (IBC), Hillegom, the Netherlands on behalf of the Dutch Flower Bulb Industry. Because of the various climates in North America and year-to-year variability of the weather, the IBC cannot and does not accept responsibility for divergent results that may arise using information obtained from this document or site. Photographs copyright @1997 by A.B. Russell and A.A. De Hertogh. Computer programming by Miguel Buendia, graphics by Brad Capel.