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