‘Silver Leopard’ spice lily requires full sun to thrive, but will tolerate part shade (2,5).  This plant is a summer grower that will go dormant during the cold winter months. Care should be taken to plant in a well-drained location for successful overwintering, reducing the risk of root-rot from winter rains (4). This plant is drought and heat tolerant, having the ability to go dormant during exceedingly dry periods, and can be sustained on an infrequent watering interval (2,4,5). Follow a consistent watering schedule during the plant's juvenile grow season to establish a deep and extensive root system (1). Once the plant is established it is drought tolerant, but it is still best to provide regular watering during severely hot temperatures to optimize appearance (1,2,5). It can grow in relatively poor soils as long as the soil is well draining. This plant will thrive in containers measuring at least 12” in diameter, considering its robust root system (7). Silver leopard is typically propagated through root division, you can also propagate this plant by collecting and sowing seeds (2). Fresh seeds typically will germinate best in temperatures between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit in around 7 to 21 days (7). 

The rhizomes of the straight species, Manfreda maculosa, were traditionally extracted and used by Indigenous people of North America to make soap and shampoo (5). The leaves have been used medicinally by crushing them up and using them to draw out venom/poison from snake and insect bites (4). Crushed up leaves of this plant have also been applied to reduce mumps, swelling of joints and carbuncles (4). Today, this cultivar is widely known as an accent plant, being used extensively in xeriscape and succulent gardens. This plant is low maintenance and drought tolerant, helping to conserve water usage while reducing yard trimming wastes. Manfreda leaves are very soft making it a great plant in an area with lots of pedestrian traffic (2).