Comparison of nutrient content in bulbs of Japanese red spider lily (Lycoris radiata) and golden spider lily (Lycoris aurea), ornamental and medicinal plants

Plants of the genus Lycoris in Japan are of importance in culture and religion; they are used as ornamental and medicinal plants. Two species are particularly attractive: Lycoris aurea with yellow flowers and Lycoris radiata with red flowers. Both species show a wide biological activity mainly due to the high content of alkaloids. The aim of the study was to compare the mineral composition of Lycoris aurea and Lycoris radiata bulbs. The analyses were carried out on bulbs obtained after the end of flowering. There were significant differences between the tested species in the content of both macronutrients and micronutrients. The bulbs of Lycoris radiata contained significantly more nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, zinc, manganese and iron compared to Lycoris aurea bulbs. In turn, more boron was found in Lycoris aurea bulbs. There were no differences between species in terms of phosphorus, calcium and copper contents in the bulbs. In summary, both species have different nutritional requirements. Lycoris aurea bulbs have the highest nitrogen and magnesium content, while Lycoris radiata bulbs contain the highest amounts of nitrogen and potassium. Bulbs of both species are a rich source of iron and zinc.