Eremurus isabellinus | Foxtail Lily | Desert Candle

Planting guides for Annuals, Biennials, Perennials, Shrub & Vine seeds can be found at: 

https://bloomoutlet.com/seed-guides/ 

Please read BOTH the seed guide and the PLANT SPECIFIC sowing instructions. If you are unsure of the best way to germinate the seeds, DO NOT SOW ALL THE SEEDS. Keep some in case the germination method you use doesn’t work. 

Cold stratify ALL perennials, shrub & tree seeds for at least 30 days unless the plant specific instructions indicate a longer period. 

If you are not ready to plant the seeds, keep it in the refrigerator (not freezer). 

EREMURUS X ISABELLINUS | FOXTAIL LILY, DESERT CANDLE

Plant Specific Instructions (Read “Seed Guide” as well): 

1. Seed Preparation

  • Cold Stratification: Store seeds in a moist paper towel in the refrigerator for 4–6 weeks.

  • Soaking: Soak the seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing to soften the seed coat.

2. When to Sow

  • Best time:Autumn (September–November) or early spring (March–April).

  • Seeds require a cold period to break dormancy.

3. Soil & Growing Medium

  • Use well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil.

  • A mix of 50% compost, 25% sand, and 25% perlite works well.

4. Sowing Depth & Spacing

  • Depth:3–5 mm (1/8 inch)—lightly cover with soil.

  • Spacing:5–10 cm (2–4 inches) apart in seed trays or pots.

5. Temperature & Light

  • Ideal germination temperature:15–20°C (59–68°F).

  • Provide bright, indirect light.

  • Germination can take 30–90 days.

6. Watering & Care

  • Keep soil moist but not soggy—avoid overwatering.

  • Once seedlings emerge, reduce watering to prevent rot.

  • Transplant after 1–2 years when plants are strong enough.

7. Transplanting & Growth

  • Move seedlings to the garden after the last frost.

  • Choose a full sun location with well-draining soil.

  • Eremurus prefers dry summers and cold winters.

  • Expect flowers in 3–5 years.

Growing Eremurus isabellinus from seed is slow, but with patience, you’ll be rewarded with stunning, towering flower spikes! ?✨

An improvement of the Shelford/Ruiter hybrid variety. Early to flower. 

USES: Cut flower

Botanical Name: Eremurus x isabellinus 

Common Name: Foxtail Lily, Desert Candle

Type: Perennial

Flower Color: Mix of white, yellow, pink and orange shades

Flowering Season: Summer to Fall

Plant Height: 5 ft (160 cm)

Plant Spread: 20 in-5 ft (0.4-1.5 m)

Plant Spacing: 

Light Requirements: Full Sun

Water Requirements: Average, Dry

Soil Requirements: Well-drained. Average

USDA Zones: 4-9

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