Zephyranthes candida ‘Major’ is a passalong form of the South American rain lily, Zephyranthes candida, introduced to cultivation by Kew Gardens in 1897. This original collection by Dr. Cantera hails from the region around the Uruguay capital, Montevideo. For us, the tight, fast-offsetting clump of 8″ tall rush-like, glossy green leaves are topped, starting in early August(NC) and continuing through September with a dense showing of 3″ wide pure white, chalice-shaped, crocus-like flowers, each beautifully accented by the golden pollen, and perched singly atop 9-10″ stems. Zephyranthes candida ‘Major’ is easy to grow in a moist or dry site. In a 1907 edition of the RHS Garden, an article states “The plant increases fast, and when available in quantity, it will be in great demand.” We agree!
