Pancratium is a bulbous genus in the Amaryllidaceae family with species from the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean region, tropical Africa and tropical Asia. It is related to Narcissus and Galanthus. Flowers of Pancratium have a characteristic corona and six elegant white segments and are very beautiful. This genus was the subject of the PBS list 
Topic of the Week March 2004. Pascal Vigneron provided the very interesting Introduction which is the source of much of the information on this page. He has links to pictures of species on his Website
It has been proposed (2000) that some species of this genus should transfer to the genus Clinanthus.
Pancratium illyricum comes from Corsica, Sardinia and Capri. It grows "inland" on rocky slopes and sparse woodland areas, from sea level to more than 1300m above sea level. Flowering time is May (April-June). The white flowers are fragrant. The Italian name "giglio stella", i.e. Star Lily, is a good description of the flowers. The large leaves (30-60 cm x 1.5-5.5 cm) disappear after flowering in early summer, and the plants goes dormant with leaves appearing at the end of winter. It is the hardiest Pancratium: USDA zone 8 and probably 7 in sheltered position with a southern aspect. Full sun, but in the South light shade.
The photos below from Hans Joschko were taken in Corsica in May and June where he found them on rocky slopes at 800 m. The first picture is a habitat shot followed by a close-up.
This species has a rather short growing cycle and is slow to reach flowering size. Leaves last about three months only and the flower stalk quickly elongates together with the emerging leaves. Better a cool corner in the hottest climates. Photo by Angelo Porcelli.
Pancratium maritimum is a very nice species, dwelling along sandy coasts of the whole Mediterranean sea. Although winter growing, it will stay evergreen in moist soils. The flowers are short living, but produced in succession and very scented at evening. It will grow well in ordinary garden soil, but needs full sun. Photo by Angelo Porcelli.
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