Slim and elegant, Eremurus, also called foxtail lilies, produce tall flower spikes that proudly dominate borders in summer. To enjoy this beautiful flowering, you must first know how to plant Eremurus bulbs correctly, as they require some precautions because of their distinctive star-shaped roots. Discover our tips to succeed in planting them.

Eremurus flowers
Foxtail lilies in the garden

When to plant Eremurus?

Planting Eremurus bulbs is generally done in autumn, from September to November. This is the best period to allow roots to establish before winter. Plant in mild conditions, before the first frosts to ensure good recovery the following spring.

Where to plant Eremurus bulbs?

To flower well, the foxtail lily prefers planting in full sun and sheltered from strong winds that could break its tall flower stems. Soil must be deep, light and perfectly drained, as Eremurus bulbs dread standing moisture that causes rot, especially in winter.

Good to know: Avoid flat, clay areas of the garden that retain water. In such conditions, even the best care will not protect your Eremurus bulbs.

star-shaped root of Eremurus
An Eremurus bulb

Planting Eremurus bulbs in open ground

  1. Before planting, loosen the soil thoroughly so the star-shaped roots can spread without constraint.
  2. Dig a wide, deep hole, at least twice the size of the bulb.
  3. Mix some sand or gravel with your garden soil to improve water drainage, as foxtail lilies dislike moisture.
  4. Also place a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom of the hole to prevent water pooling.
  5. Place the bulb gently, spreading its star-shaped roots flat like an open hand and the bud facing upwards.
  6. Cover it with 5 to 10 cm of light soil.
  7. Allow spacing of 30 to 50 cm between each bulb to let them develop properly.
  8. After planting, water lightly to encourage rooting and eliminate air pockets.
Planting Eremurus bulbs
Eremurus should be planted on a layer of gravel or sand to avoid rot caused by excess water. (image enhanced by AI)

Gardening tips:

  • If soil is heavy or clayey, lay a thick layer of coarse sand or gravel at the bottom of the planting hole. You can even form a raised mound to prevent water pooling at bulb level.
  • To create a strong presence in the garden, plant foxtail lilies in groups of 3 to 5 bulbs.

Planting Eremurus bulbs in pots

  1. Choose a deep, wide pot, at least 30–40 cm in diameter depending on variety size.
  2. Place a drainage layer at the bottom made of gravel or clay pebbles.
  3. Fill with a mix of two-thirds potting compost to one-third sand, adding a good handful of well-rotted compost.
  4. Place the bulb in the centre, spreading its star-shaped roots and positioning the bud upwards.
  5. Cover with about 5 to 10 cm of light soil.
  6. Finish with a moderate watering, just enough to settle the substrate.

Care and maintenance after planting

  • Watering: Eremurus tolerates drought well and dislikes excess water. In open ground, watering is therefore unnecessary, except during prolonged spring drought. In pots, water moderately and allow the substrate to dry out between waterings.
  • Mulching: in regions with harsh winters, apply a light mulch to protect bulbs from cold.
  • Flowering: once flowering is over, cut off faded Eremurus flowers to prevent the plant wasting energy on seed production.
  • Foliage: allow foliage to die back naturally, as it feeds the bulb and allows it to replenish its reserves.
  • Feeding: a potash-rich fertiliser after flowering also helps strengthen bulbs for the following year. You can also add some well-rotted compost.