Lily


Lilies are summer bulbs. Most lily species came originally from the Orient. They have since been lovingly bred and crossbred so that there are many varieties available in the United States. All are showy, stately additions to perennial gardens. Their bulbs divide every season, so each year brings more and more flowers. Asiatic Hybrid Lilies (derived from Lilium x maculatum and others) are deservedly popular, because they're among the easiest garden lilies to grow, either from bulbs or seed.

Height And Spread of Lilies - Various Asiatic hybrids grow anywhere from 2 to 5 feet tall, and spread about 1 foot wide. The bulbs range from 6-1/2 to 7-1/2 inches in circumference.

Lily Flowers - Asiatic hybrid lilies bloom in June and July. Their funnel shaped flowers have 6 petals which turn backwards at the tips. Each stem bears several flowers which bloom successively. Asiatic hybrid flower colors range from white to yellow to deep red. Many have freckles. Depending on the variety, there may be 12 to 30 flowers per plant. Each produces seeds which, if harvested and planted will produce new plants.

Lily Foliage - Lily leaves are narrow, 4 to 7 inches long. Dark green with smooth edges, they line up singly along the sides of the tall stems.

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