Plant Facts

Lily

Plants A-C
Plants D-L
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  • Name - The genus name Lilium is from the Latin vernacular for the Madonna Lily.
  • Description - The genus of 80 or more species of bulbs is distributed throughout the northern hemisphere. Lilies have erect unbranched stems clad with narrow leaves and topped by large six-petalled flowers in the form of trumpets.
  • Origin - China and South East Asia
  • Family - Liliaceae
  • Varieties - Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum) which bears pure white fragrant trumpets, is an excellent variety for growing indoors. Other varieties for indoor planting are the scented oriental hybrids 'Star Gazer' and 'Mona Lisa' and the Asiatic hybrids like 'Symphony'
  • Care Tips - Pot grown lilies thrive best in a frost-free environment, warm temperature and bright light (but not burning sun). They need rich but light and porous compost. Water them moderately, feed lightly once a week and watch out for the pollen which can stain clothes and carpets. When they have finished flowering, they can be planted out in the garden in a semi-shaded spot and within a year they will flower again.
  • Trivia - Lilies produce magnificent, scented blooms (lasting up to 3 weeks indoors) and are viewed as the aristocrats of flowering potted plants. They have been appreciated since the days of the Byzantine Empire. If you do get pollen on textiles, do not rub. Dab off with sticky tape or, in summer, place the textile out in the bright sunlight - it really does work!

    Caution: Be aware that lilies can be highly poisonous to cats. Owners should be aware of this risk and keep their pets away from them.

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    Lily