After a heavy summer rain, it's very likely to see strange flowers of flaming red sprout from the soil and soon become a sea of vibrant color.

The flower has a peculiar shape, with long stamens that extend from narrow segments and curve backward, resembling spider's legs. This is why it is called a red spider lily.

The red spider lily has a wide distribution around the world, especially in China and Japan. Unlike flowers that blossom with leaves, they emerge with no leaves in sight. The leaves normally make an appearance after the flower fades, meaning the two never meet.

It blooms from July to September, from late summer to early fall, and it turns into a sea after rain in China's Yunnan, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.

If you want to grow a red spider lily, please be aware that the bulb, flower, leaves and stem are poisonous, so, keep your pets or children away. 

(Cover, via VCG, designed by CGTN's Jia Jieqiong)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)