Lycoris radiata, commonly known as "Manzhu Shahua" or safflower Lycoris, is a striking red-flowered plant belonging to the genus Lycoris. This perennial herb features a bulb with dark brown, membranous scales and narrow, dark green leaves that emerge from the base. The plant exhibits an unusual growth pattern: its leaves appear in late autumn and wither by early summer, while the flowers bloom from July to September, adding vibrant color to the landscape during the late summer and early autumn months.
The flower stems can reach 30-60 cm in height, bearing 4-6 umbels at the top. The petals are lance-shaped, often red but occasionally white, curled backward with wrinkled edges, and feature a very short tube. The stamens and styles are prominent, and the overall bloom size exceeds 6 cm in diameter, making it visually striking.
Lycoris is a self-pollinating plant, and its capsules split open at the back to release numerous seeds. It typically takes 3-4 years for bulbs to mature. Due to its unique growth cycle—where flowers and leaves never appear at the same time—it is called "Bianhua" in Chinese culture. This plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, including reducing swelling, killing parasites, treating lymph node tuberculosis, acne, edema, rheumatoid arthritis, snake bites, and more. Because of these properties, it's often referred to as the "patron saint of health" or "relic flower."
In terms of growth habits, Lycoris thrives in shady, humid environments, particularly on red soil. It is cold-tolerant and prefers temperatures up to an average of 24°C. It can survive both moisture and drought, and prefers acidic, loose, fertile humus soil. One notable trait is its summer dormancy, where the plant rests underground before re-emerging in the fall.
The plant’s life cycle is symbolic: bulbs grow in spring, leaves appear in summer, flowers bloom in autumn, and the leaves gradually die back in winter. This cycle has led to associations with themes of separation and unfulfilled love, especially in Japanese culture. Due to its bright red blooms and timing around the autumn equinox, it is often linked to death and mourning in Japan, earning it the title of "flower of death." However, in China, it is more commonly associated with celebration and festive occasions because of its vivid colors.
Lycoris is widely planted in gardens, especially in clusters, creating a dramatic visual impact when it blooms in large numbers during autumn. Its ornamental value is high, and it is commonly found in regions such as Dali, Lijiang, Taiwan, Taroko, Japan, and Jiangsu. However, buyers should be cautious, as some unscrupulous sellers may confuse its rhizomes with those of narcissus and sell them as such.
The plant also contains alkaloids like lycorine, which can cause nausea and vomiting, and has effects on the central nervous system. It has been studied for potential sedative, anti-cancer, and metabolic inhibition properties. Overall, Lycoris is not only a beautiful ornamental plant but also holds cultural, historical, and medicinal significance across different regions.
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