Alternate name: Rain Lily

Family: Liliaceae, Lily view all from this family

Description From an underground bulb grow several flat leaves; leafless flowerstalk, usually single and about as tall as the leaves, bears white lily-like flower, tinged with pink.Flowers: 3 1/2" (9 cm) wide; 6 petaloid parts, widest toward the tip, curving outward slightly; stamens shorter than style.
Leaves: to 14" (35 cm) long, basal, narrow, sharp-edged.
Height: to 1' (30 cm).

Warning The leaves and bulbs are poisonous, as are the bulbs of many members of the lily family. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person’s age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant’s different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil.

Flower April-June.

Habitat Rich woods and damp clearings.

Range Virginia south to Florida; west to Mississippi.

Discussion The genus name alludes to Zephyrus, in Greek myth the west wind and husband of Chloris, goddess of flowers. Blooming generally around Eastertime, these flowers are popularly known as Easter Lilies. The species name, derived from a Native American word meaning "stained with red," describes the flower.