The rare and stunning Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies (Hymenocallis coronaria) are now blooming in SC rivers, including the Broad and Congaree. These resilient aquatic flowers grow in only a few places worldwide, and the Midlands is lucky enough to be one of them.
This year’s Lily Watch update from Landsford Canal State Park (as of May 8) reports that over 50% of the lilies are blooming, with peak bloom expected soon. Thanks to recent rain, some may still be submerged, but now’s a great time to catch them.
Want to see them up close? Try:
- Landsford Canal State Park — a top viewing spot for blooms by foot or kayak
- Parks Mill Spider Lily Preserve near Plum Branch — hosting open house tours on Saturday, May 10 + 17 (registration required)
- By kayak in the Broad and Congaree rivers.
Note: These flowers are protected, so please don’t pick them — photos only.
