SafePlants

Belladonna Lily (Amaryllis belladonna)

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The sap and bulb of the Belladonna Lily are mentioned as being especially toxic to children.

Common Names

The plant Amaryllis belladonna is commonly known as Belladonna Lily, Jersey Lily, Naked Lady (or Naked Ladies), Amarillo, Easter Lily (in Southern Australia), and March Lily (in South Africa).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amaryllis belladonna L.
• Family: Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to South Africa, specifically the South Western Cape.
• Found in loamy soils.

Ecological Role

• Regarded as an environmental weed in Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, and as a minor environmental weed elsewhere.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A bulbous perennial plant.
• Produces several strap-like, dull green leaves.
• Flowers are trumpet-shaped.
• Blooms in late summer or fall (February and March in Southern Africa).
• Flowers are pale pink to white.
• Forms clumps as it grows.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Naked Ladies" is attributed to the fact that the flowers bloom before the leaves develop.
• The name "Belladonna" means "beautiful lady".
• The plant "pops out of the ground with no announcement or fanfare."

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information on Amaryllis belladonna.
• Dave's Garden offers a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• Collins English Dictionary online provides a definition of "belladonna lily."