Is the Zephyr lily an orchid? Introduction to its flowering time and care methods

Zephyr lily, also known as rain flower and Zephyranthes candida, is a common perennial herbaceous plant in China. Because its flowers are beautiful and it has the effect of reducing heat and detoxifying, it is widely cultivated. So, does the Zephyr lily belong to the orchid family? When does it bloom? How do you care for it?

The Zephyr lily does not belong to the orchid family; it belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family as a perennial herbaceous plant, also known as rain flower. It is said that they can sense changes in the weather. Usually, before thunderstorms and rain arrive in summer and autumn, the flowers bloom in abundance, and they can forecast the coming of wind and rain. People praise it as the “rain flower” (or rain grass). Rain flower is the general name for four plants: Zephyr lily, small Zephyranthes, autumn zephyrlily, and yellow autumn zephyrlily.

Flowering time:

The Zephyr lily blooms in summer, and it is very beautiful when in flower. The flowers of the Zephyr lily can open multiple times. After the flowers of the Zephyr lily fade, a series of measures can be taken to make it bloom again. Generally, the Zephyr lily can bloom up to three times within a year. The flowering period is relatively long. Generally, the Zephyr lily blooms from June to September each year.

Planting techniques:

1. Soil: Choose soil with good drainage, humus-rich sandy soil containing colloidal substances formed by the microbial decomposition and transformation of organic matter to plant the Zephyr lily.

2. Environment: It is suitable for growing in a place with sufficient sunlight, a temperature above 15 degrees, and good ventilation. However, it should not be exposed to the scorching sun in summer. A temperature between 16-26 degrees is optimal. Although good ventilation is needed, it should not be placed directly in a drafty spot.

3. Water: Especially during the growing period of the Zephyr lily, sufficient water must be ensured. This can make its leaves lush and will also affect the number and size of its flowers.

4. Fertilizing: During the growing period, sufficient fertilizer must be applied. A relatively diluted liquid fertilizer can be used 3 to 4 times.

5. Care after flowers fade: After the previous batch of flowers fades, do not water for the time being. After 50 to 60 days, resume normal watering, then stop watering again. Repeat this cycle several times to produce 2 to 3 flowering periods within a year, with each flowering period lasting about 10 days.