Crinum americanum (Swamp Lily)

Native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, and the western Caribbean, this bulbous perennial forms clumps about 2 to 3 feet tall. It grows in swamps, marshes, and beside streams, with narrow, strap-shaped leaves arising from the bulb. Fragrant white flowers, sometimes tinged pink, open in clusters of two to six. Their scent intensifies at night, attracting sphinx moths that pollinate them. It is also a host plant for Spanish moth caterpillars. It is grown in water gardens and moist borders, but its bulbs are poisonous if eaten. Photographed in Florida.