Amazon Lily
Eucharis grandiflora
Grandiflora
About this plant
Eucharis grandiflora, commonly called Amazon Lily, is a tropical plant known for its large, fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves. It blooms mainly in spring and is popular as a houseplant for its elegant appearance and sweet scent. It grows from bulbs and can produce clusters of star-shaped flowers that brighten indoor spaces.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Eucharis
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Asparagales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Colombia, Ecuador
- Distribution
- Native to the rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador; widely cultivated as a houseplant worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Bright indirect
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 13 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil with organic matter
Watering. Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Fertilizing. Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant rests.
Eucharis grandiflora is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers indirect light and consistent moisture but dislikes waterlogged soil. It can suffer if kept too dry or in direct sun. Regular watering and occasional feeding help it thrive indoors.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Large glossy green leaves and clusters of fragrant white star-shaped flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The plant contains compounds that can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Eucharis grandiflora may cause mild skin irritation in some people if they touch its sap. It is not known to produce airborne pollen that causes allergies. To reduce any risk, wear gloves when handling or pruning the plant.
Common problems
Common problems include yellowing leaves from overwatering, leaf scorch from direct sunlight, and pests like spider mites if air is too dry.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.
Notes
Repot every 2-3 years in spring using well-draining soil. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.