this was found in a friend’s backyard. We were wondering what it is.
Hi Libby,
this is called Lycoris radiata, the Red spider lily. It is quite striking when it flowers because there are no leaves, and one cannot ignore the bright color. The leaves are actually produced in the winter and are often not noticed, and they look a bit like amaryllis leaves, to which it is related. It is quite commonly planted in the southern states. Some like to call these Surprise lilies or Resurrection lilies.
Sincerely,
Steve Hill, Ph.D., Botanist. SCNPS