Melinda Myers

Asiatic Lily

Botanical Name

Lilium species

Hardiness

Zones 4 to 10

Height

4 to 8 feet

Flowers

Summer: white, pink, scarlet, orange, yellow, rose

Light

Full sun

Soil

Well-drained

Planting & Care

• Plant lily bulbs in fall
• Plant bulbs at a depth two to three times their length and space at least three times their width apart
• Use a minimum planting depth for those planted in clay soil, the deeper the bulb is planted, the greater the risk of bulb rot
• Add organic matter to heavy clay soil to improve drainage
• Purchase and plant precooled bulbs in the spring as soon as the soil is workable
• Lilies are also sold as plants during the growing season and can be planted whenever available
• Mulch the soil to keep lily roots cool and moist
• Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soil, this can lead to root rot
• Apply a winter mulch after the ground freezes for added insulation and for help in getting the bulbs through challenging winters
• Asiatic lilies tend to be hardier than Oriental types
• Flowers of Asiatic lilies are usually unscented and may face up, out or down
• Many florists are forcing Asiatic hybrids for Easter bloom

Problems

Animals, rot in poorly drained soils, hardiness, fasciation, aphids & virus

Varieties

• Bright Star - creamy white with apricot throat, 3-4'
• First Love - pink petals with apricot throat, 4-5'
• Pink Perfection - dark rose pink, 5-6'
• Elodie - pink double flowers, 42"
• Easy Samba - tangerine orange flowers with deep purple centers and no pollen
• Royal Sunset - upward facing blooms in shades of purples, yellows and pinks; colors change change from warmer or cooler depending on the light
• Mapira - deep maroon flowers
• Lollypop - two toned petals of white and pink
• Forever Susan - deep burgundy flowers rimmed in bright gold and orange