Eremurus robustus
foxtail lily bulb or giant desert candle
Delivery options
- Bulbs (only) £4.95
- Position: full sun
- Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: June to July
- Hardiness: fully hardy
This foxtail lily is an impressive sight in early summer, when its slender flowerspikes start to emerge. Growing up to 3m in height, each raceme is typically packed with hundreds of soft pink, star-shaped flowers, which open in succession from the base of the spike. It's an elegant and stately addition to both naturalised and more formal planting schemes, where it will add both structural interest as well as colour.
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