Giant lily (Cardiocrinum giganteum) | plant

VERY RARE

• Latin name: Cardiocrinum giganteum
• Danish names: Kæmpehjertelilje
• English names: Giant Himalayan lily

Cardiocrinum giganteum – also known as the giant Himalayan lily – is one of the most impressive lilies you can grow. It originates from the Himalayas and East Asia, where it grows in moist, wooded mountain areas. With its enormous size, fragrant flowers, and elegant growth, it is a true statement plant in the garden.

Appearance and growth

The giant Himalayan lily first forms a rosette of large, heart-shaped leaves close to the ground. After several years of development, the plant shoots up an impressive flower stalk that can reach up to 2–3 meters in height.

At the top, a series of large, trumpet-shaped flowers are formed in creamy-white shades with greenish and purple tones in the throat. The flowers are intensely fragrant and attract pollinators during the summer period.

After flowering, the parent bulb dies, but the plant propagates via side bulbs, which continue the growth.

Use in the garden

Cardiocrinum giganteum is ideal as a specimen plant in woodland gardens, shade beds, or exotic plantings. It works particularly well in combination with ferns, hostas, and other forest floor plants, where its height and flowering create a dramatic focal point.

Cultivation and care

• Light: Partial shade to light woodland shade. Avoid direct, harsh sun.
• Temperature: Hardy in Denmark when placed correctly.
• Soil: Deep, humus-rich, and well-drained soil with good moisture.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season.
• Fertilizer: Apply compost or mild organic fertilizer in the spring.
• Overwintering: The bulbs can overwinter in the ground. A layer of leaves or mulch protects against frost and drying out.

Growth cycle

The giant Himalayan lily requires patience. It typically spends several years building up energy in the bulb before it flowers. In return, you are rewarded with one of the most spectacular flowerings in the garden world.

Cardiocrinum giganteum is a majestic and rare lily that brings both height, fragrance, and drama into the garden – perfect for the patient gardener and collector who wants something truly special.

Note: The images are meant as examples of the plant and do not necessarily represent the exact plant being purchased.

Here you can optionally buy it as seeds instead