SafePlants

Crinum asiaticum: The Asian Poison Bulb

Crinum asiaticum, commonly known as Asian Poison Bulb, giant crinum lily, grand crinum lily, or spider lily, is a widely planted ornamental plant in warmer regions.

Considerations for Pets

• The text indicates that the bulb is considered poisonous.

Considerations for Children

• The text indicates that the bulb is considered poisonous.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crinum asiaticum
• Common Names: Asian Poison Bulb, giant crinum lily, grand crinum lily, spider lily, Asiatic poisonbulb, Tree Crinum
• Family: Amaryllidaceae (also referenced as Liliaceae in some sources)
• Synonyms: Crinum amabile. The text also references Amaryllis districha and Buphane districhia, which may be related but are more strongly associated with Boophone disticha.
• There are references to varieties such as Crinum asiaticum var. procerum and Crinum asiaticum var. pedunculatum

Distribution and Habitat

• The plant is native to Tropical Asia and is introduced and locally naturalized in many warmer regions. One image is noted as being taken at Eastern Island, Midway Atoll and another from the coast of Miyazaki, Japan.

Morphological Characteristics

• Crinum asiaticum is described as an evergreen, large, perennial, bulbous, rosette-like herb, reaching 5 to 6 feet in height. It has numerous, flat, strap-like leaves.

Traditional Uses

• The Bushman used a related "Bushman's Poison Bulb" (likely referring to Boophone disticha) for arrow poison, and traditional healers still use it to treat pain. Some sources note medicinal uses for Crinum asiaticum itself, although it is also noted as poisonous.