Eremurus × isabellinus 'Cleopatra'

foxtail lily bulb

Eventual height & spread

Eremurus × isabellinus 'Cleopatra'

foxtail lily bulb

  • 1 × tuber
  • £6.23 £7.79
  • In stock (shipped within 1-2 working days)
Delivery options
  • Bulbs (only) £4.99
  • Next/Named Day £10.99
  • Position: full sun
  • Soil: fertile, sandy, well-drained soil, including alkaline soil
  • Rate of growth: fast
  • Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
  • Rate of growth: fast
  • Flowering period: June to July
  • Hardiness: fully hardy
  • Bulb size: grade I (ie. the largest)


Stately, slender spikes packed with burnt orange flowers soar above strap-shaped, bluish-green leaves in early and mid summer. This spectacular foxtail lily makes a bold statement towards the back of a sunny, well-drained border.

It's best partnered with late-flowering perennials and tall grasses which help to mask the plant's short-lived foliage.

Foxtail lilies need to be planted in fertile but well-drained soil with the crown not far below soil level. They start to grow in late winter and spring, gathering their strength before they produce their towering flower spikes in summer. Each flower spike has hundreds of flowers which open from the bottom upwards, creating a stunning effect. They thrive in the sunniest spot in the garden, especially if the base of the plant isn't shaded as this can decrease the number of flowering spikes produced.


  • Garden care:
    Plant Eremurus tubers from September to November, spreading the starfish-like roots over a mound of soil in a shallow hole, with the crown about 5cm (2in) below the surface. Space them 30-60cm (12-24in) apart in fertile, well-drained soil and a sunny, sheltered spot.

    After flowering, deadhead the spent blooms and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser weekly for about a month. Allow the foliage to die back naturally, then leave the tubers in the ground, ensuring the soil remains well-drained to prevent rot.

    Foxtail lilies resent disturbance so hand weed around them. They don’t thrive in the shadow of other plants.

    If lifting is necessary due to soil prone to waterlogging, store the tubers in a cool, dry place over winter.
    • Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten

    Goes well with