How to Grow Renga Renga Lily
Arthropodium cirratum
Renga renga lily is a tough, clump-forming New Zealand native that excels in dry shade where little else thrives. Its arching strap-like leaves grow 60-90 cm tall and wide, with sprays of small starry white flowers on tall stems in late spring and summer. Plant in well-drained soil enriched with compost; water regularly until established, then it tolerates drought well. Mulch in spring and give a light feed. Remove spent flower stems after blooming. Divide congested clumps in spring or autumn.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Light slow-release fertiliser in spring as new growth begins.
Watch For
- Slugs and snails
- Mealybugs
Companions
Hostas, Ferns, Agapanthus, Libertia
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to full shade; best in part shade
Extremely adaptable — thrives in full sun with adequate moisture and in deep dry shade. Best performance in dappled or part shade. Tolerates dry shade better than most ornamental perennials.
Watering
Regular when establishing; drought tolerant once established
Water regularly for the first season after planting. Once established, tolerates dry periods well. In full sun or exposed positions, water during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing
Light slow-release feed in spring
Apply a light slow-release general-purpose fertiliser in spring as new growth begins, or side-dress with well-rotted compost. Generally low feeding requirements.
Pruning
Remove spent flower stems; tidy foliage in spring
Cut flower stems to the base after blooming. Remove any damaged, dead or tatty leaves in spring. Division every 3-5 years rejuvenates congested clumps.
Spacing
60-90 cm apart
Space plants 60-90 cm apart. Clumps spread slowly by rhizome and can be divided to propagate. Allow room for the mature spread of 60-90 cm.
Support
No support needed
This plant is self-supporting. Flower stems are tall but sturdy and do not need staking.
Growing Tips
Ideal for dry shade
One of the best plants for dry shade under trees or on shaded slopes. Once established it tolerates periods of drought that would stress most perennials.
Remove spent flower stems
Cut flower stems back to the base after blooming to keep the plant tidy and encourage healthy foliage growth.
Divide congested clumps
Every 3-5 years, lift and divide large clumps in spring or autumn to rejuvenate the plant and create new specimens.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 75 cm |
| Row spacing | 75 cm |
| Mature height | 90 cm |
| Mature spread | 90 cm |
Forms clumps 60-90 cm across. Space 60-90 cm for groundcover; 75 cm for borders. Clumps spread slowly by rhizome.
