Notholirion thomsonianum

Notholirion thomsonianum is a little-known bulb that's a cousin of the better known genera of Cardiocrinum, Fritillaria, and Nomocharis. Hailing from sub-alpine regions of the Western Himalayas that include Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kashmir, and Northern India, Notholirion thomsonianum has proven surprisingly growable for over a decade in our hot, humid climate. Growing best in dry soils, the short lily-like foliage emerges in October (NC), and is topped in mid-April (NC) with stunning 30" spikes of fragrant, soft mauvy pink tuberose-shaped flowers. During its summer dormancy, we find it best to keep the soil on the dry side by planting it near a moisture-hogging tree or shrub. In our trials, light shade to morning sun has produced the best results.