Foxtail Lily Cleopatra Bare Root | Eremurus | Tall Orange-Salmon Spires | Deer Resistant | Zones 5–8

Foxtail Lily Cleopatra – Eremurus | Bare Root

Eremurus ‘Cleopatra’ is one of the most elegant and sought-after foxtail lily cultivars — a stately, tall-growing perennial that sends up impressive spires of warm orange-salmon flowers in late spring to early summer, reaching 3–6 feet (90–180 cm) in height. Native to the steppes and mountain slopes of Central Asia, Eremurus is a plant of genuine drama: rising from a distinctive star-shaped bare root (rootstock) into towering, densely-packed floral wands that command attention in any garden setting. Deer resistant, long-lived, and increasingly spectacular as the roots establish year after year.

Plant immediately upon receipt — the bare rootstocks can dry out and benefit from being rehydrated and planted promptly. Supplied as top-size tuberous rootstocks. Bloom time: May–June. USDA Hardiness Zones 5–8.

Variety Details

• Cultivar: Eremurus ‘Cleopatra’
• Common Name: Foxtail Lily, Desert Candle
• Bloom Color: Warm orange-salmon — densely packed spires
• Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer (May–June)
• Height: 3–6 feet (90–180 cm)
• Type: Hardy perennial bare root — USDA Zones 5–8
• Deer resistant; rabbit resistant; squirrel resistant
• Excellent cut flower

Planting Guide

• Plant immediately upon receipt — rootstocks dry out quickly and should be planted or rehydrated as soon as possible.
• Site: Full sun with protection from strong wind. Eremurus needs bright, direct sunlight for best blooming and stem strength.
• Soil: Rich, well-draining soil is essential. Eremurus will not tolerate waterlogged conditions — amend heavy soils with coarse sand or grit before planting.
• Planting method: Loosen soil at each planting site. Picture the rootstock as an outstretched hand — the raised “nose” or pointed crown faces upward; the spreading fleshy roots (fingers) radiate outward. Gently place the rootstock with the crown pointing up and the roots spread naturally. Handle carefully — the roots are brittle.
• Planting depth: Cover the top of the rootstock with 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) of soil. Do not plant too deeply.
• Spacing: Space plants 36 inches (90 cm) apart — never overcrowd. Eremurus need room to spread their roots and develop fully.
• Winter mulching: In Zones 5–6 or in exposed microclimates, apply a 2-inch layer of dry mulch or leaf mould after the ground freezes to protect shallow rootstocks from temperature fluctuations and late spring frosts.

Growing Tips

• Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming — do not cut stems early, as the leaves feed the root for the following year’s bloom.
• Avoid disturbing established clumps — Eremurus resents being moved once settled and may take a season to re-establish after division.
• Stake tall spires in windy or exposed locations.
• Eremurus may not bloom in the first year as roots establish — be patient. The display becomes more spectacular each subsequent season.

Garden Uses

• Dramatic back-of-border vertical accent — towering orange-salmon spires above lower plantings
• Cut flower garden — long-lasting in arrangements with exceptional presence
• Mediterranean, prairie, and cottage garden borders
• Mixed perennial plantings alongside alliums, salvias, and ornamental grasses