What is this flower that was found growing on a rock in the middle of a river?
Rocky Shoals Spider Lily.
Justin Ballew, ©2024, Clemson Extension
This is a rocky shoals spider lily (Hymenocallis coronaria). This species is endemic to the Southeast and grows only in swift, shallow water environments, making the Catawba and Broad Rivers in South Carolina ideal habitats. The population shown above is located on the Broad River near Columbia. The spider lily was once common but has been diminished over time due to human activity. While populations currently only exist in Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina, the largest is located in Lansford Canal State Park along the Catawba River in York County. Peak bloom is from mid-May through mid-June and can be viewed from an observation deck at the park. Learn about some of the conservation efforts aimed at protecting and reestablishing spider lily populations here.
