Crinum 'Sangria'

Do you love purple-foliaged crinums, but you're tired of them dying outside when the cold weather hits? Then it's time to give Crinum 'Sangria' a try. 'Sangria' is valued for its ability to withstand colder temperatures than the other dark-foliaged crinums. We have successfully grown this crinum outside on our farm for 6 years, and we've had some pretty cold winters! (15-17 degree lows for two days straight--hey, that's cold for us!) Just a reminder, we're located in sandy loam soils east of Dallas, TX and north of Tyler, TX if this helps give you an idea of our climate. Officially we're a Zone 7B, but we'd still recommend this crinum for zones 8 or warmer; it will struggle to survive winter freezes in zone 7 or colder. This low-maintenance bulb showcases dramatic glossy foliage that varies from purple to bronze, with leaves that can grow to 2 feet long, and it can be grown simply for the pleasure of enjoying that showy foliage from spring through fall.

Blooms: Although 'Sangria' is valued mostly for its foliage, it graces the garden with trumpet-shaped, rosy pink to magenta flowers that cluster atop smooth, sturdy stems. The blooms come in the warm months, often in late spring and again later in the season, though bulbs may need a few years of growth to bloom well. The plant can grow tall, up to almost 5 feet in height!

Planting: Plant 'Sangria' in spring or summer once the danger of frost has passed. Like most crinums, plant the bulb with the tip of its neck right at or barely above soil level. Give it full sun to part shade (full sun brings out the deepest purple foliage) and well-drained soil, and space bulbs about 3 feet apart so they have room to clump. Water regularly, especially while it is getting established. In zone 8, a layer of mulch over the bulb in winter will help protect it.

Landscaping Tip: The dark, strappy leaves make a striking contrast against silver, chartreuse, or bright green plants, and 'Sangria' is a great choice for a large container if you are in a colder zone and want to bring it in during the winter.

History: This gorgeous dark-leaved hybrid originated in 1983 and was introduced by Texas horticulturist Scott Ogden. It is much more winter hardy than other purple crinums.