The Peruvian Daffodil with Late-Summer Pollinator Value

Hymenocallis festalis, commonly known as the Peruvian Daffodil (and sometimes referred to as Spider Lily due to its distinctive form), is an elegant summer-flowering bulb chosen for its sculptural blooms, gentle fragrance and contribution to late-season biodiversity. Its striking white flowers feature long, ribbon-like petals radiating from a delicate central cup, creating an airy, starburst effect that brings lightness, movement and nectar-rich interest to sunny borders and containers.

Flowering in mid to late summer, Spider Lily provides valuable nectar at a time when floral resources can be in decline. Its open, sculptural flowers are accessible to pollinators, particularly bees and night-flying insects attracted by its gentle, sweet fragrance, which becomes more pronounced in the evening.

Why We’ve Chosen Hymenocallis festalis

• Late-Summer Nectar Source – Flowers during a key seasonal window, helping extend forage for pollinators.

• Distinctive Open Flower Form – Accessible blooms suited to bees and other beneficial insects.

• Fragrant & Evening-Active – Scent intensifies later in the day, supporting insects active beyond peak daylight hours.

• Low-Input & Reliable – Thrives in warm, well-drained soil with minimal intervention once established.

• Ideal for Containers & Borders – Performs particularly well in pots, courtyards and sheltered sunny spots.

Biodiversity-Led Growing Tips

Plant bulbs in spring in free-draining, fertile soil in a sunny, sheltered position. Hymenocallis appreciates consistent moisture during the growing season but dislikes sitting in waterlogged ground. In cooler or wetter gardens, container growing allows better control of soil conditions and placement near seating areas where both fragrance and insect activity can be enjoyed.

Allow flowers to open fully before cutting to maximise nectar availability. Pair with other summer- and autumn-flowering plants to help create continuous forage throughout the growing season.

Did you know?
Fragrant, open flowers like those of the Spider Lily are particularly valuable in diverse planting schemes, attracting a wider range of pollinating insects and increasing overall garden resilience.

Product Details

• Pack Size: 2 Bulbs 

• Flower Colour: Pure white

• Flower Size: Large, star-like blooms with long ribbon petals

• Planting Time: Spring (March–May)

• Flowering Period: Mid–late summer

• Mature Height: Approx. 40–60 cm

• Spacing: 20–30 cm apart

• Planting Depth: Plant bulbs approx. 10–12 cm deep in well-drained soil

Please note: Toxic if ingested. May cause skin irritation. Keep away from pets and children.

An eye-catching and lightly scented summer bloomer, Hymenocallis festalis brings structure, fragrance and genuine late-season pollinator support to wildlife-aware gardens and containers.

Use a Dibber for planting bulbs.