Google tells me that this is a Crinum Lily, no reason to doubt that identification as the Google image matches. But there is a mystery….
We bought this bulb on impulse and curiosity at a Garden Centre Check Out about 5 years ago. It was labelled as an Elephant Lily. The information sheet attached said – To plant the bulb with the top third above soil level. It would, they stated, produce long green leaves and in late autumn produce crocus like flowers. Well it did, but nothing special… we liked the foliage, so left it be.
This Year, what a surprise. A tall flower stem and flower petals, a plant we could identify. Surprised but also intrigued, so I thought I would record its development and changes to the flower head.
And on the 8th day the flower departs….
I hope it will return next season, maybe more than one stem. The mystery remains… what of the Elephant Lily and was this years display a result of our recent unusual heatwaves ?.
Enjoy your summer… and as always….
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
29th July
(C) David Oakes 2025
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 