I really love these little white lilies that pop up a few days after a soaking rain. I guess that is where they got there name - Rain Lily. The only bad part about these flowers is there is only one bloom per stem.
This one pushed up through the drive way tar and stone. The other thing about this plant is that it is only the bloom stem and maybe two long slender leaves so without the bloom or afterwards the seed pod, they are extremely difficult to find in your yard.
The flower in the photo, with its pristine white petals and soft yellow center, is a classic example of Z. candida, one of the most popular species in the genus.
Rain Lily (Zephyranthes candida): A Delicate Bloom with a Dramatic Entrance
The Rain Lily, scientifically known as Zephyranthes candida, is a charming perennial bulb native to South America but grows in the continental United States. Often called the Fairy Lily or Zephyr Flower, this plant is celebrated for its elegant, crocus-like blooms that appear suddenly after rainfall—hence its name.
Th Rain Lily has lots o different names and is commonly known as evening rain lily, evening star rain lily, giant rain lily, hill country rain lily, prairie lily, or just rain lily.
Rain Lilies typically grow 6–12 inches tall and wide, forming clumps of slender, grass-like foliage. Their funnel-shaped flowers open from midday to afternoon, creating a fleeting but magical display. These blooms are most common in late summer and early fall, especially following heavy rain or irrigation.
Thriving in USDA Zones 7–10, Rain Lilies prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They tolerate loamy, sandy, or clay soils and are surprisingly drought-resistant. However, a good soaking can trigger a spectacular flush of blooms. Minimal care is required—no fertilization is necessary, and they can be left undisturbed for years.
Toxic to pets and humans
While beautiful, Rain Lilies are toxic to pets and humans if ingested, so caution is advised in gardens with children or animals. They’re ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers, adding a touch of whimsy and surprise to any landscape.
Whether admired for their resilience or their poetic timing, Rain Lilies are a testament to nature’s ability to blend simplicity with drama.
I us an app called "Plant Parent" for the majority of the above information and screen shots.