Save this one for later: Foxtail Lily

Oh my goodness, if you haven't discovered the Foxtail Lily yet, you are in for a treat! When I first stumbled upon photos of these incredible plants, often known by their scientific name Eremurus, I was absolutely captivated. They truly live up to their name with those magnificent, bottlebrush-like spires of flowers that can reach impressive heights, sometimes over six feet tall! I remember thinking, 'I have to get these into my garden plan for next year!' So, what exactly is a Foxtail Lily, and why should you consider it for your own space? First off, let's clear up any confusion: this isn't the pesky foxtail weed that can be a nuisance in lawns. This 'fox lily,' or 'lily fox tail' as some call it, is a show-stopping perennial that brings drama and vertical interest like few other plants can. Its bloom time, usually late spring to early summer, fills a gap when many other spring flowers are fading and summer blooms are just getting started. Planting Your Foxtail Lily Bulbs for Success The key to a thriving Foxtail Lily display starts with planting. These come as unique, starfish-shaped roots or foxtail lily bulbs, rather than traditional round bulbs. My personal experience has taught me that good drainage is non-negotiable. They hate wet feet! I always amend my soil with plenty of grit or sand to ensure water never sits around the roots. Choose a spot with full sun – they really bask in it and produce the best foxtail flowers when they get at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. I typically plant them in early autumn, giving them time to establish before winter. When you're planting, make sure the crown (the center of the 'starfish') is just barely covered with soil, only about 1-2 inches deep. Give them plenty of space too; these foxtail flower plant beauties can spread a bit and need room to show off. I usually place them about 18-24 inches apart. They are hardy in USDA foxtail lily zone 5-8, sometimes even 4 with good winter protection. If you're on the colder end, a layer of mulch after the ground freezes can help protect those precious roots. Caring for Your Towering Beauties Once established, Foxtail Lilies are surprisingly low-maintenance. They appreciate consistent moisture during their active growing and blooming period, but once they go dormant in mid-summer, I ease off on the watering. I find a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as they emerge helps fuel those incredible flower spikes. They don't typically need staking unless you live in a very windy area, as their stems are quite sturdy. After the foxtail flowers fade, I let the foliage die back naturally, which helps store energy for next year's spectacular show. You might be tempted to cut it back, but patience is a virtue here! While they aren't ground cover lilies themselves, their tall, slender form makes them excellent back-of-the-border plants, rising majestically above shorter perennials and shrubs. They create an amazing contrast and focal point. I've heard some people worry about foxtail removal thinking they might be a weed, but rest assured, these are highly prized ornamental plants. If you're looking to add vertical drama, unique texture, and a truly unforgettable presence to your garden, planning for Foxtail Lilies (Eremurus) for next year is a decision you won't regret. They are truly magnificent!