Their bright flowers suit all types of gardenswhether classically designed, cottage-style, or contemporary.
About 100 species are in the genusLilium.
Asiatic, trumpet, and Oriental lilies are the types most commonly grown in the garden.
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While it is best to plant lily bulbs in late summer, spring planting is also possible.
Some lilies bloom in early summer, whileothers bloom through fall.
There are several hybrid divisions and another division of species of lilies.
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Many can be grown in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3 to 9.
Note that lilies, including their pollen and parts, are toxic to dogs and cats.
Asiatic Hybrids
Asiatic lilies are the easiest to grow and most reliable for the average garden.
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Some have upward-facing flowers, while others have horizontally held or drooping flowers.
Asiatics bloom in early summer and grow 2 to 5 feet tall.
Plants are 3 to 6 feet tall, and each stem carries 12 to 20 flowers.
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They are very adaptable and able to tolerate drought conditions and poor soil.
In hotter areas, they appreciate afternoon shade or dappled sun.
You’ll find these lilies in shades of orange, yellow, red, and pink.
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The stalks of many varieties grow quite tallup to 6 feet.
Some have spotted petals while others do not, and most varieties are very fragrant.
Oriental Hybrids
Orientals are the most elegant of the lilies.
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Their flowers are sometimes mistaken fororchids.
Most are tall with nodding flowers, but a few are dwarf and have upward-facing blooms.
If it takes, you will have flowers for many seasons.
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This Asian species spreads efficiently in the garden and can be grown in Zones 3-9.
Unlike most lilies, the ‘Madonna’ dies down soon after blooming and makes new growth in fall.
It’s best to plant this Middle Eastern species while dormant in the fall.
The bulbs must be planted shallowly at about 1 inch deep and do best in neutral or alkaline soil.
ASPCA.Which Lilies Are Toxic to Pets?
