Giant Himalayan Lily

Cardiocrinum giganteum is a dramatic, architectural perennial prized for its towering presence and strikingly fragrant flowers. When the plant is about 5 years old, in summer, this giant lily will send up a single, bold flower spike reaching up to 2–3 meters tall (6–10 feet), bearing numerous large, trumpet-shaped, creamy white flowers with maroon throats and a sweet scent. In late September, attractive oblong seedpods form, making attractive decorations if kept and dried.

Before flowering, it forms a lush rosette of large, heart-shaped green leaves that add texture to shady borders. This plant is monocarpic (it flowers once then dies), but it often produces offsets to continue the show in future years. Ideal for woodland gardens or shaded, sheltered spots where it can slowly mature into a breathtaking focal point.

Site: Sheltered, woodland gardens, shaded borders, architectural planting
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained
Position: Partial to full shade
Season of interest: summer (flowering); spring–summer (foliage)
Hardiness: Hardy (protect young shoots from late frosts)
Height: 180–300 cm (6–10 ft) Spread: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)