The genus Pancratium in the Amaryllid family has long been a garden favorite, despite few others gardeners growing them. There seem to be several etymological theories on the derivation of the name. The root, “Pagkration” means almighty in Greek. Consequently, some folks think the genus name refers to ancient Greek sport of pankration, which involves boxing and wrestling….the forerunner of our current mixed martial art fighting. Others think the name refers to the medicinal properties of the genus, while others think it refers to the strength of the plant, which can tolerate dry climate extremes. So, take your pick.
Pancratium sickenbergii is a species native to dry sandy steppe regions of the Middle East (Israel (Palestine), Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Syria). Surprisingly, it has thrived for us in a summer dry garden location, bursting with sweetly fragrant flowers every year in mid-September. Hardiness is most likely Zone 7b-10b.
