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Eremurus stenophyllus

Steppes candle

Common names: Lily tail, Narrow-leaved steppes candle

Steppes candle

This description was machine-translated.

Description

The steppes candle, botanically Eremurus stenophyllus, draws attention from June with its bright yellow candle‑shaped flowers. Above the narrow, grass‑like foliage, the stems shoot up to 1.2 m and open hundreds of small star‑shaped flowers from bottom to top. As a steppes plant from Central Asia, it prefers full sun and a warm, sheltered spot in the garden. The bulbous root star stores water and nutrients, making the plant surprisingly drought‑tolerant in summer.

Care instructions

Plant the root star in autumn flat and gently in a well‑draining, sandy‑loam substrate; the steppes candle does not tolerate waterlogging. A drainage layer of sand or gravel beneath the root star protects against rot in wet winters. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back before removing it so the tuber can store energy for the next year. In very wet sites, cover with straw or leaves over winter. Water only during longer dry periods while the plant is actively growing; thereafter it can thrive with minimal watering.

Soil & site

Soil pH

4.0pH 6.5–88.0

Soil type

well-drained, sandy, lean, dry

LightFull sun
HardinessHardy

Feeding

Light feeder

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