Not a true lily, these plants are part of theamaryllisfamily.

squamigerais resistant to deer and rabbits and does not have any significant risk of pests or diseases.

Surprise Lily Care

Surprise lilies are fairly low-maintenance plants.

Resurrection lily with trumpet-like purple flowers clustered on end of stem in sunlight

The Spruce / K. Dave

Excessive summer watering causes the bulbs to rot.

Surprise lily bulbs are large and reach about two inches in diameter.

Choose the plumpest bulbs to get the best show of blooms.

Resurrection lily flowers with light purple trumpet-like petals in sunlight closeup

The Spruce / K. Dave

Plant them in a location that receives full sun or partial shade.

Light

Resurrection lilies thrive in locations with full sun.

However, the plants will tolerate partial shade, particularly in warmer climates.

Resurrection lily flowers growing on tall and thin stem surrounded by foliage in sunlight

The Spruce / K. Dave

If the soil is poor-quality, work a three-inch-thick layer of compost into the top foot of soil.

Water

TheL.

squamigeraplant is not drought-tolerant, so it needs moderate watering during its growing season.

If subjected to extreme heat or cold, flowers will be smaller and fewer.

It tolerates a wide range of humidity levels.

Pruning

Resurrection lilies do not need pruning beyond removing dead foliage and stems.

Simply leave them alone and they will thrive in the garden.

Propagating Resurrection Lilies

The way to propagate resurrection lilies is by dividing existing plants.

The plants won’t bloom the first year after being divided because they are establishing new roots.

Potting and Repotting Resurrection Lilies

Surprise lilies are suitable to be grown in containers.

Choose a large container to allow the plant room to grow.

Ensure the container has drainage holes to allow water to drain from the sand and potting soil mixture.

Mix in a slow-release fertilizer and water well after planting.

In containers, the plant roots are not well insulated against the heat.

Overwintering

Resurrection lilies suffer from cold damage when the temperature dips below 28F.

To protect them, spread a two-inch-thick layer of mulch on top of the bulbs in the winter.

Fortunately, resurrection lily is quite hardy and doesn’t face serious plant diseases.

These plants live for seven to 10 years when given the proper environment.

Dividing the plants regularly ensures that the original bulbs live on for many years beyond that.

To fully enjoy their beauty, keep them outdoors.

Numerous types of lilies bring the same burst of color to the landscape as resurrection lilies.