The Perennial To Plant In November For Golden Blooms & More Pollinators In Summer

Winter is rapidly approaching, but depending on the weather conditions in your area, it might not be too late in the season to establish new plants. Case in point: golden spider lily (Lycoris aurea). Since it grows from bulbs, this flowering perennial can be planted in the fall months — yep, even as late as November! — so it has plenty of time to take root before it flowers the following summer. Its striking golden blooms are truly something to behold.

Golden spider lily is native to China and South Korea; grown stateside, it fares best in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 through 10. As a note, this tender Lycoris variety is not to be confused with golden surprise lily (Lycoris chinensis), its hardier lookalike that can tolerate winters in Zones 5 and 6. When planted and maintained properly, golden spider lilies will bloom spectacularly and attract pollinators to your yard. They're one of those beautiful perennials that hummingbirds love. This perennial also gets points for being drought-tolerant and deer-resistant once established. Here's what you need to know to plant golden spider lilies in late fall so you can enjoy their flowers next summer.

When planting golden spider lilies in November, keep an eye on the weather in your area. If there happens to be frost in the forecast, it might be too late in the season to grow them directly in the ground. Golden spider lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade, so grow them in a garden bed or container where they'll receive ample sunshine. Transplanting them can delay their blooms, too — so be sure to choose a suitable spot for them right out the gate. (Some pro tips for winterizing perennials like golden spider lilies: Gardeners in colder regions will have the best luck growing them in pots so they can be brought indoors over the winter. You can also use mulch to protect your plant from the elements.)

Beyond that, you'll want to dig holes for your golden spider lily bulbs so their necks are roughly at soil level, erring on the deeper side (1 to 2 inches below soil level) in colder regions. Then, simply cover each bulb and water it. Plant bulbs in groups of three to five for a more lush look, and aim for average, well-draining soil.

Established golden spider lilies aren't very fussy. Water them regularly during their growth season, paring back once the weather cools down and stopping altogether when they enter their dormant season. Expect to see those gorgeous golden blooms spring to life in August or September. Butterflies, hummingbirds, and moths all flock to spider lilies' flowers, making this plant a solid option if you're looking to start your own pollinator garden.