Pancratium is a genus of African and Eurasian perennial, herbaceous and bulbous plants in the Amaryllis family, subfamily Amaryllidoideae[3][4][5] Pancratium are perennial, bulbous, herbs[6] with long-necked bulbs[7] and linear or ligulate, basal, sessile leaves.

[12] The name Pancratium is derived from the Greek and means "all-strength", probably referring to the strength of a plant that can tolerate extreme climates.

[13] Many species have been published using the name Pancratium, but most have been transferred to other genera (Clinanthus, Hymenocallis, Ismene, Proiphys and Stenomesson).

P. maritimum and P. illyricum being the hardiest for outdoor cultivation, but shy flowering in cool areas.

[16][17][18][19][20] In Pancratium maritimum pollination by bees, namely Xylocopa violacea, Apis mellifera, and Anthophora bimaculata, has also been reported.