Lily Oxblood (Schoolhouse Lily)
Rhodophiala bifida
Characteristics
- Type: Perennial
- Zone: 7 – 11
- Height: 10 – 19 Inches
- Bloom Time: Late Summer or Early Fall
- Bloom Colors: Pink, Red, White
- Flower: Showy
- Sun: Full Sun – Partial Shade
- Water: Medium Until Established
- Foliage: Unusual Color
- Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
- Will Naturalize
- Suggested Use: Cut Flower
Culture
Lily Oxblood (Schoolhouse Lily) adds exotic elegance to the landscape. They are remarkably hardy and can withstand temperatures down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The lily produces a stellar flower that is blood red and highly impactful. Oxblood lilies are extremely adaptable to a wide range of soils. They can even thrive in heavy clay, but as with most bulbs, do not try growing oxblood lilies in boggy soils. They also tolerate alkaline to acidic soil. The plants are heat and drought tolerant but do require consistent spring rains to form foliage and flowers. Foliage emerges first and then dies back just prior to flowering. Full sun to partial shade locations are recommended. Select a location with 6 to 8 hours of sun per day. Flowers tend to last longer in areas with some protection from the hottest rays of the day. Plant bulbs 3 inches deep with the neck facing upward and at least 8 inches apart.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Oxblood lily is a fall blooming plant which goes dormant in summer. The blooms look similar to amaryllis, but the two plants are not related. Each bloom is only open for 2 to 3 days, but the flowering clump will produce for up to a month. The bulbs are not common in many parts of North America but can be found quite extensively in Texas where they were first introduced. Oxblood lily care is fairly specific, but the plant is extremely adaptable to different soil conditions and makes a bright and eye-catching addition to the autumn garden. In spite of this plant’s slightly gruesome name, the lily is a marvel when it blooms. The plant is also known as schoolhouse lily. The deep color of the blooms is a magnet to hummingbirds, blooming at just around the time school starts in fall. They are also known as hurricane lily due to the timing of the blooms, which coincides with the storm season.
Problems
Relatively pest free. Does not like soggy soil.
Garden Uses
The bulbs naturalize readily and should be separated every couple of years, providing a consistent supply of the plants. Water them well for the first year but thereafter the plants can survive dry periods. Apply a 5-5-10 fertilizer in summer to promote big healthy blooms. They can be grown in 1 gallon or larger containers if the containers have good drainage.