Is Higanbana the Same as Lycoris?
In East Asia, the mysterious Higanbana often blooms with a veil of secrecy, and the bright red flowers that bloom during the autumnal equinox are often mistaken for independent species. This article will systematically analyze the relationship and core differences between Higanbana and Lycoris through three dimensions: botanical characteristics, ecological habits, and variety classification.
Classification System of Amaryllidaceae Plants
Positioning of Red Lycoris Variety
Higanbana, scientifically known as Lycoris radiata var. radiata, is indeed a typical variety of the Lycoris genus. Its chromosome number 2n=22 is consistent with the basic Lycoris species, but its unique morphological feature with the perianth segments recurving up to 75° makes it an independent variety.
Lycoris Genus Flower Color Lineage
Among the more than 20 species in the genus, only the red Lycoris has a pure crimson color. Others include: • White Lycoris (L. albiflora) with pale white stripes on the petals, • Golden Lycoris (L. aurea) with an orange yellow corolla, and • Purple Lycoris (L. squamigera) with a light purple hue.
Detailed Comparison of Morphological Characteristics
Difference in Flower Structure
The perianth segments of Higanbana are 4-5 cm long, with wavy creases on the edges, and the stamens are twice the length of the corolla; the perianth segments of common Lycoris are only 3-4 cm long, with stamens equal in length to the corolla.
Comparison of Ecological Adaptability
Red Lycoris has strict requirements for soil pH (5.5-6.5) and grows best in areas with an average annual temperature of 16-22°C; common Lycoris can tolerate pH 6.0-7.5, with a temperature adaptation range expanded to 12-28°C.
Guide to Appreciating Special Varieties
Color Change Series of Treasures
Incarnate Lycoris (L. incarnata) initially blooms white and gradually changes to pink after 48 hours, with the petals' midribs having carmine stripes. This color change is due to the gradient change in anthocyanin concentration.
Preferred Cold Tolerance
Jack-in-the-pulpit (L. squamigera) can survive winter at -15°C, with a flowering period 15-20 days earlier than Higanbana, making it suitable for cultivation in northern gardens.
Through systematic organization, it can be seen that Higanbana, as a star variety of the Lycoris genus, has irreplaceable ornamental value and cultural connotations. Mastering its core identification features can help horticulture enthusiasts more accurately carry out variety breeding and landscape configuration.