About Pancratium illyricum L.
Pancratium illyricum L. is a bulbous perennial plant species native to Corsica, Sardinia, and the Capraia Islands of Tuscany. It grows on rocky slopes and in sparse woodland areas, at elevations ranging from sea level to over 1300 meters above sea level. It produces glaucous leaves that are 30 to 60 cm long and 1.5 to 0.5 cm wide. Leaves wither after flowering in early summer, and the plant enters dormancy. The scape can reach up to 45 cm long. Its white, highly fragrant flowers are arranged in umbel clusters of around 12 flowers, and have a short corona. Flowers bloom from April to June. In cultivation, it is easy to grow and flowers freely when planted near a south-facing wall. It increases in size slowly. It is the hardiest species in the Pancratium genus, growing well in USDA zone 8, and can likely survive in USDA zone 7 when grown in a sheltered location with a southern aspect. It prefers full sun in cooler climates, and light shade in warmer conditions. It can be propagated by seeds or by division.
