Uncover the enchanting world of Lilium, commonly known as lilies. These versatile flowers come in numerous captivating species, each with its unique charm. While there are over 100 lily species globally, many hail from the northern hemisphere. As you explore the world of lilies, you’ll encounter an array of varieties, including the African Lily, Asian Lily, French Lily, Turkish Lily, Cape Lily, and Japanese Lily, among others.
Lily’s Allure
Lilies are celebrated for their exquisite blooms, making them a popular choice among garden enthusiasts. These hardy bulbs are best planted in your garden during the autumn season. Once established, they can grace your garden alongside perennial plants for years. If your planting spot lacks shelter, consider positioning them alongside slightly shorter plants to protect them during windy spells.
Where to Buy Lilies?
You can conveniently acquire lily bulbs from platforms like bol.com, with options ranging from cheerful mixed colors to romantic combinations of pink and white. Alternatively, explore unique selections like the Asian Lily. The choices are abundant!
Planting Your Lily
While technically bulbs, lilies function beautifully as perennial garden plants. Plant them anytime between late autumn and early spring, avoiding frost periods. Lilies thrive in sunny, sheltered locations. It’s crucial to minimize dehydration; therefore, plant your bulbs promptly upon purchase or delivery. If immediate planting isn’t feasible, store them in plastic bags filled with potting soil. Lilies also adapt well to container planting.
Lily’s Blossoms
Lily flowers flaunt a rich spectrum of colors and shades, including white, various pinks, red, yellow, purple, and orange. These elegant blooms come in various styles, from striped and edged to dotted and solid. Lily flower shapes range from trumpet-like to flat or cup-shaped. Sizes vary from 7 to 25 centimeters in diameter. Lilies typically grace gardens from June to September.
Planting Lily Bulbs
When planting lily bulbs, bury them at a depth of at least 10 centimeters beneath the soil’s surface. For larger bulbs, 15 centimeters is acceptable. Lilies produce roots that extend from the bulb, supplying water during the growing season and anchoring the plant in the autumn. If you’re interested in other bulb varieties, explore the diverse options available.
Lily Varieties
Breeders continuously develop new lily varieties, resulting in a wide selection for gardeners. Here are some favorite and well-known lily species:
1. Lilium Lancifolium (Tiger Lily)
- Height: Approximately 100 centimeters during blooming (July-August)
- Distinctive Feature: Speckled orange flowers, easy to grow in various soil types.
2. Lilium Oriental (Oriental Lily)
- Height: Around 100 centimeters
- Blooms: July-September
- Characteristics: Available in a spectrum of colors, emits a lovely fragrance.
3. Lilium Candidum (Madonna Lily)
- Notable Trait: Pure white blooms, minimal planting depth (beginning June, 2-3 weeks of flowering).
4. Lilium Nepalense (Nepalese Lily)
- Height Range: 40 to 120 centimeters
- Flowering Season: June-July
- Unique Feature: Fragrant blooms, green-white hanging petals with red-brown centers.
5. Lilium Leichtlinii
- Height: Over 100 centimeters
- Blooms: July-August
- Highlight: Yellow flowers with dark red speckles, sturdy stems.
6. Lilium Stargazer
- Height: 60 to 100 centimeters
- Blooms: July-August
- Noteworthy: Dark pink blooms with white edges and red speckles.
7. Lilium Martagon (Turk’s Cap Lily)
- Flowering Season: Earlier than most lilies
- Unique Trait: Curled petals, prefers partial shade.
8. Lilium Longiflorum (Easter Lily)
- Height: Approximately 100 centimeters
- Blooms: June-August
- Distinctive Feature: Trumpet-shaped, fragrant white flowers.
9. Lilium Henryi
- Height: About 100 centimeters
- Flowering Season: July-August
- Notable Characteristic: Orange blooms with dark speckles.
These captivating lily varieties offer a range of colors, sizes, and fragrances, making them a versatile choice for your garden. Experiment with different types to create a stunning display in your outdoor space.
