Lilies are a popular flower choice for gardens, bouquets, and floral arrangements. They come in various colors, sizes, and shapes that can add beauty to any garden or home.
Various lily species are available, each with unique characteristics that make it special. We will explore the different types of lilies and their specific features.
Read on to learn more about the various kinds of lilies and how they can be used in your garden or home decor.
Types Of Lilies
These popular flowers come in many different varieties, each with unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of lilies:
1. Asiatic Lily
Asiatic lilies are among the most popular and widely grown lily species. These hardy, easy-to-grow plants produce a profusion of blooms in vibrant colors ranging from white to yellow, pink, orange, and red.
The flowers grow on stems that can reach up to four feet tall. Asiatic lilies are generally disease resistant and require minimal care once established in the garden.
They bloom in late spring or early summer and perform best when planted in full sun with moist but well-draining soil.
After flowering is complete, cutting back the foliage will help reduce disease problems and increase airflow around the plant. Mulch or compost added to the soil will also help retain moisture and improve fertility.
If planted in the ground, Asiatic lilies will continue to spread and multiply over time. These plants can be grown annually or dug up for overwintering indoors in colder climates. No matter how you grow them, Asiatic lilies are sure to add a pop of color and beauty to any outdoor space.
2. LA Hybrid Lily
LA Hybrid lilies are a hybridized cross between an Asiatic and Longiflorum variety of lily, making them some of the most popular varieties among gardeners.
These showy blooms come in shades of pink, red, white, yellow, and orange from late spring to early summer. LA Hybrid lilies look best when planted in groups or as part of a colorful border.
These hardy plants prefer full sun for at least 6 hours per day and thrive in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level.
Regular watering is recommended, though it’s important to keep the soil moist while avoiding wetting the leaves, which can cause fungal diseases. Fertilizing during the blooming season every four weeks will help keep them healthy and promote lush growth.
As with all lilies, LA Hybrid is a perennial plant that can bloom for many years with proper care and maintenance. Deadheading spent flowers will ensure more blooms, while removing the entire flower stalk after blooming finishes for the season will encourage strong bulbs for next year’s display.
In some regions, these plants are hardy enough to survive cold climates and may come back year after year without replanting them.
Overall, LA Hybrid lilies make an attractive addition to any garden with their showy-colored blooms and easy maintenance requirements. Regular watering and fertilizing should provide beautiful displays of color throughout the summer months.
3. Oriental Lilly
Oriental lilies belong to the genus Lilium, comprised of over 100 species.
This type of lily is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes because it has showy, fragrant flowers that come in various colors, including white, yellow, orange, pink, and red. Oriental lilies are native to Japan and require full sun or partial shade to thrive.
These plants typically reach heights between 4–6 feet with large trumpet-shaped blooms on top of tall stems. The individual blooms measure up to 6 inches across and have reflexed petals surrounding a prominent yellow center.
Oriental lilies bloom in the summer and may continue into fall, depending on the climate zone. They tend to rebloom after about a month, adding to the beauty of any garden.
In addition to being attractive in a garden or landscape, Oriental lilies have symbolism. They are often used as symbols of purity and innocence and are commonly given as gifts during special occasions such as weddings or anniversaries. The flowers can be cut for use in bouquets or dried for long-term display.
Oriental lilies are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance once established. Plant the bulbs in spring after all danger of frost has passed, and water regularly during the summer months until it is time for the plant to go dormant in fall.
When preparing the bed, ensure well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Deadhead spent blooms on keeping the plant looking tidy and removing any foliage that begins to yellow or brown as the season progresses.
Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer once a year to help ensure healthy growth and plenty of blooms. With these simple tips, you can enjoy beautiful Oriental lilies in your garden for years to come.
The Oriental lily is an excellent choice for both beginning and experienced gardeners due to its ease of care and showy blooms.
It will bring color, fragrance, beauty, and symbolism into your garden or landscape, creating a striking display that everyone can appreciate.
If you are looking for an attractive flower with versatile uses, consider adding Oriental lilies to your yard this growing season.
4. Trumpet Lily
The Trumpet Lily (Lilium sulphureum) is a bulbous flowering plant found in many parts of the world. It has large, trumpet-shaped flowers, usually white or cream-colored, with orange and yellow centers.
The blooms typically measure 4 to 6 inches wide and appear on strong, upright stems that reach 3 to 5 feet. The leaves are glossy green, lanceolate-shaped, and grow up to 10 inches long.
Trumpet Lilies need full sun and well-drained soil for healthy growth. They should be planted fairly deep in the ground about 8 inches down, so they have good stability as they mature.
Fertilize twice yearly, once in the spring and again in mid-summer. Water regularly during the blooming season, and remove spent flowers. Trumpet Lilies are known for their long flowering period, from late June to September.
These plants can easily be propagated by division of bulbs or by seed. When planted in gardens, they should be placed about a foot apart to give them enough room to grow and spread out without overcrowding. Trumpet Lilies also look beautiful when planted as a mass display or near walkways for all to view their beauty.
This versatile plant is perfect for adding texture, depth, and color to any garden landscape. It’s also great for naturalizing, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators, and providing cut flowers for floral displays.
With its showy flowers, sturdy stems, and easy maintenance, the Trumpet Lily is a garden favorite that will bring beauty to any outdoor space.
5. Longiflorum Lily
The Longiflorum lily, also known as the Easter lily, is a beautiful flowering plant. It features an abundance of bell-shaped white blooms with a sweet fragrance.
Native to the Ryukyu Islands in Japan, this species has become popular worldwide thanks to its easy cultivation and elegant beauty.
Longiflorum lilies grow up to 2 feet tall and have long, narrow leaves that can be 6 inches wide at maturity. These plants bloom from late spring until early summer with clusters of 10 – 20 flowers per stem.
The delicate petals curl outward at the tips, making them resemble trumpets or bells, which give rise to their common name. The blooms come in white and pale yellow, with some varieties featuring creamy peach edges.
These plants are relatively easy to care for. They need full sun or partial shade, well-drained soil, and plenty of water during the summer months.
Pruning can help keep growth under control, but be careful not to cut back too much, as this may cause the plant to lose its flower buds. Fertilizing is only necessary if the soil does not contain enough nutrients for good growth.
The Easter lily is a popular gift or decoration for occasions such as Mother’s Day and Easter Sunday. It has also become associated with purity and innocence due to its traditional white hue and delicate beauty.
Whether it’s used to jazz up a garden, bring a touch of elegance to an indoor space, or express feelings of love and appreciation on special occasions, the Longiflorum lily is sure to make an impression.
Overall, the Longiflorum lily is a stunningly beautiful plant that can add brightness and elegance to any environment.
Its gorgeous trumpet-shaped blooms will brighten up any space and will be appreciated by all who behold them. With its easy care requirements and long flowering period, this species makes it an excellent addition to indoor and outdoor gardens.
6. Stargazer Lilly
The Stargazer lily is one of the most popular and easily recognizable varieties of lilies. Its spectacular, long-lasting blooms come in shades of pink, red, and white with a star-shaped pattern in the center.
These flowers feature an upright stance and two or three overlapping petals. The Stargazer lily has a strong floral scent that can fill a room with fragrance.
Unlike many other lilies, the Stargazer does not require special care or maintenance. However, proper planting and fertilizing can ensure healthier growth and more vibrant flowers.
Like all lilies, these plants should be planted in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter like compost or manure.
To maximize blooming, they should also receive direct sunlight and be fertilized regularly during the growing season with a fertilizer specifically designed for lilies.
The Stargazer lily is a lovely addition to any garden or arrangement, offering an exquisite display of beauty that stands out among other flowers.
Its strong aroma and vibrant colors can bring joy and cheer to any setting. This type of lily will thrive in gardens across the United States with proper planting conditions.
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space or create breathtaking arrangements indoors, this exquisite flower will do the trick.
7. Tiger Lily
Tiger lilies are a member of the genus Lilium and part of the Liliaceae family, characterized by their large, orange blooms with distinctive black spots.
Native to Asia, these beautiful flowers have become widely popular in North America for their vibrant colors and strong stems that can reach heights up to six feet tall.
Tiger lilies are easy to grow and require minimal upkeep as they prefer full sun exposure and well-drained soil. Furthermore, these flowers can survive colder climates by having a good layer of mulch around them during winter.
When caring for tiger lilies, it’s important to note that they don’t need frequent watering or fertilizing, once every two weeks should be enough.
Additionally, they may need staking when they’re in full bloom to prevent them from drooping due to their heavy blooms.
For the best results, deadhead spent blossoms and cut back foliage after flowering has finished ensuring that the plants are healthy and continue to develop new flowers.
Tiger lilies also make great houseplants if given enough light and water. They can thrive indoors properly and make a beautiful addition to any home or garden.
With their bright colors and strong stems, these flowers make for an eye-catching feature inside and outside your home. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy having Tiger lilies in your garden all year round.
8. Casa Blanca Lily
The Casa Blanca lily is a beautiful and fragrant variety of Oriental lily with large, snow-white trumpet blossoms. It has an attractive tall and upright growth habit, reaching 3′ in height.
This classic and timeless variety of lilies features sweetly scented blooms that bring fragrance and beauty to any garden or container planting.
Each stem of the Casa Blanca lily can produce up to 8 flowers each, which measure around 5” across when fully open.
The petals have a delicate texture with visible purple spots near the center of each bloom. The flowers also have long, green stamens that create an eye-catching contrast against their pure white petals.
The Casa Blanca lily is a mid-season bloomer, flowering between late June and early August. It can be planted in either full sun or partial shade and prefers moist soil conditions with good drainage.
This variety of Oriental lily is hardy to USDA zones 4-9, so it can tolerate cold temperatures but should be protected from frost or extreme heat. When planting, space the bulbs 3-5” apart and bury them at least 8” deep for best results.
The Casa Blanca lily looks great when planted alone as part of a border or garden bed or can be combined with other plants, such as ornamental grasses and annuals, for an attractive display. When grown in containers, it is best to use a large pot with plenty of soil depth for the bulbs to thrive.
The Casa Blanca lily is ideal for those looking for an easy-to-grow and beautiful variety of lilies. Its stunning white blooms and sweet fragrance will enjoy any garden or container planting.
With its hardiness and upright growth habit, this classic flower will provide beauty and luxury season after season.
9. Australian Hybrids Lilies
Australian Hybrids lilies are a type of lily that is native to Australia. They are one of the most sought-after lilies due to their large and colorful blooms.
These lilies are prized for their beauty, hardiness, and ability to thrive in warm climates. They also have an incredibly long vase life, which makes them a popular choice for cut flowers.
These lilies come in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. Some even feature unique color combinations like stripes or multi-colored petals.
The blooms range from small trumpet shapes to giant full-cupped flower heads that can be up to 6 inches across. Australian Hybrid Lilies also have a pleasant, delicate scent in many perfumes and fragrances.
The most popular Australian Hybrid Lilies are the Stargazers, which feature large white petals with bright red centers. These lilies bloom from late spring to early summer and can reach up to five feet tall when planted in the ground.
Whether you’re looking for cut flowers or want to plant some of these spectacular lilies in your garden, Australian Hybrids are sure to add color and beauty to any space. With proper care, these lilies can thrive for many years and bring joy to generations of admirers.
10. Aztec Lily
The Aztec Lily is a species of lily that originates from Mexico and parts of Guatemala. It has large, trumpet-shaped flowers with creamy white petals surrounded by a vibrant yellow center.
The leaves of the plant are long and narrow, with pointed tips. This lily grows best in areas where temperatures remain moderate year-round, making it an ideal choice for gardeners in sub-tropical climates.
When caring for this lily, provide light and moist soil conditions. The Aztec Lily should also be planted at least six inches apart from other plants to ensure adequate air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases.
Additionally, this variety tends to need more water than other lilies, so monitor water levels and adjust accordingly.
When in bloom from late spring to early summer, the Aztec Lily produces an abundance of beautiful flowers that can be enjoyed for many weeks.
In addition to its beauty, the Aztec Lily also has many medicinal properties. It is used in traditional remedies for kidney health and headaches due to its diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects.
The leaves can also be consumed raw or cooked for a nutritional boost containing vitamins A, B, Vitamin Complexes, C, D, E, and K, along with minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Overall the Aztec Lily is a wonderful choice for gardeners looking for a unique lily variety with a long blooming season and many medicinal benefits. With its hardy nature and lovely flowers, this lily can be a beautiful addition to any garden.
11. Aztec Gold Lily
The Aztec Gold Lily is a unique and gorgeous flower that will be a welcome addition to any garden. This exotic lily originates from Central America and has brilliant gold petals with striking deep yellow-red markings.
It looks best when planted in grouped clusters of three or more plants. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has 10–12 large flowers per stem. Its blooming period is typically June through August.
Aztec Gold Lilies are known for their hardiness and easy care requirements, making them ideal for beginner gardeners who want to add a touch of luxury to their gardens.
These plants prefer partially shady spots with soil rich in organic matter, such as composted leaves or manure. They are also relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less frequent watering than other lily varieties. However, it’s important to fertilize the plants regularly to ensure their growth and health.
These unique and beautiful flowers make perfect gifts for friends and family or are a great addition to floral arrangements. With their bright color and exotic appearance, these lilies stand out in any setting.
Aztec Gold Lilies look best when planted in large clusters, as this allows for maximum impact. So if you’re looking for an eye-catching plant that is also low maintenance, then look no further than the Aztec Gold Lily.
12. Babylon Lily
The Babylon Lily (Gloriosa superba) is a stunning flower known for its bright, vibrant colors and captivating fragrance. This tropical lily grows in the warmer regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia.
It’s an exotic flower with climbing or trailing stems filled with beautiful flowers, typically blooming in shades of yellow, orange, red, and pink. The bloom has three sepals and three petals that curl at the ends.
The Babylon Lily is also unique due to its distinctive foliage. Stems are lined with long, narrow leaves with a wavy edge.
A single bulb can produce up to 10 flowers yearly during the late spring or early summer months when temperatures warm up.
The Babylon Lily is highly toxic and should not be ingested or handled with bare skin, as it contains several alkaloids that can cause severe burning, itching, and swelling if touched or ingested.
This plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries as a folk remedy to treat various ailments such as headaches, arthritis, and fever. It has also been used to create dyes due to its vibrant colors.
In recent years, the Babylon Lily has become popular among flower enthusiasts for its striking beauty and intoxicating scent.
It is now often sought after by gardeners looking for an exotic touch to their gardens or balconies. The Babylon Lily will do best in well-drained, moist, but not wet soil.
It will thrive in a sunny spot with plenty of support for its climbing stems. With the right care, this stunning flower can be enjoyed year after year.
The Babylon Lily is a beautiful flower that adds an exotic touch to any garden or balcony. Although it’s highly toxic, it can provide years of visual and aromatic pleasure when properly cared for properly.
Whether you want to add some tropical flair to your outdoor space or enjoy the unique beauty of this beautiful bloom in your home, the Babylon Lily is sure to please!
13. Barbados Lily
The Barbados Lily is a tropical flowering plant native to Brazil. It is also known as the fire-ball lily or bouquet of flame due to its vibrant orange-red blossoms.
The flowers are clustered in a ruffled, star-shaped shape and have six long spurs that extend from their center. The leaves are dark green and smooth, with spikes along the edges, giving it an exotic look.
These lilies grow in gardens, fields, and even on Barbados roads. In some areas, they are considered invasive due to their ability to spread quickly and overtake other plants. Despite this, the Barbados Lily is prized for its beauty and is often used in bouquets and decorations.
The Barbados Lily needs direct sunlight to thrive and prefers well-drained soils with a pH of 6.5-7.5 (mildly acidic). They are best grown from bulbs planted in the spring before the summer heat arrives.
Plant them 8-12 inches apart, burying them 2/3 into the soil, making sure not to cover their crowns (the top part of the bulb that produces leaves).
These lilies need consistent water throughout their season but can tolerate occasional dry spells as long as they receive enough moisture during the blooming period to ensure flowers form properly.
Barbados Lilies are fairly low-maintenance and will provide beauty for many years with minimal care. However, they must be fertilized every four weeks during their active growing season and deadheaded (removing the spent flowers) regularly to promote continuous blooming.
In addition, dividing the bulbs every few years is recommended as it helps keep them healthy and prevents overcrowding in beds.
The Barbados Lily is a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape with their stunning orange-red blossoms. Their easy care needs make them an ideal choice for novice growers looking to add vibrant color to their outdoor oasis.
14. Black Charm Lily
The Black Charm Lily is a unique and stunning flower that adds a touch of beauty and allure to any garden. This lily is known for its dark purple-black petals, contrasting with the yellow center, creating an eye-catching look.
The combination of dark purple and black shades makes this lily ideal for adding drama to darker color schemes or making a bold statement in classic white gardens.
Black Charm Lilies are easy to care for, making them perfect additions to beginner and experienced gardeners.
They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, which should be fertilized every few weeks throughout the growing season. Once established, these plants will bloom from late spring through mid-summer with stunning blooms.
When properly cared for, Black Charm Lilies can grow up to five feet tall, creating a dramatic effect in any garden or landscape.
In addition to their height and gorgeous petals, they require minimal maintenance and are highly resistant to disease and pests. These lilies also boast an incredibly fragrant scent that will fill your garden with a pleasant aroma.
Black Charm Lilies are an ideal choice for any garden needing a touch of drama or depth. Their beautiful blooms create a burst of color that is sure to be the focus of attention wherever it’s planted.
With proper care and maintenance, these flowers will last for years and become part of the family for many generations.
So if you’re looking for a unique and captivating flower to add a touch of elegance to your garden, then the Black Charm Lily is worth considering.
With its stunning beauty and strength, this lily will surely provide years of enjoyment in your outdoor haven.
15. Blue Bird Lily
The Blue Bird Lily is a beautiful and unique flower with unrivaled beauty.
It is known for its deep blue petals and trumpet-shaped center. The flowers are often found in warmer climates but can also be grown in colder climates with proper care.
This lily requires plenty of sunlight to grow properly and needs to be watered regularly. When planted correctly, the Blue Bird Lily will bloom from late spring through mid-summer.
Deadheading of spent blooms encourages more new blooms throughout the flowering season. This lily species likes fertile soil amended with organic matter such as compost or aged manure, and it does best when planted in full-sun locations with well-drained soils.
When given enough attention and care, the Blue Bird Lily can grow to heights of 2-3 feet, and its foliage will reach a width of up to 4 feet.
The flowers are usually between one and two inches in diameter. Due to its size, this lily is commonly used as an accent plant or border along walkways or gardens.
Due to their beautiful petals and trumpet centers, these lilies can be grown for cut flower arrangements inside the home.
It’s best to cut the flowers early in the morning when they are at peak freshness and place them immediately into water.
The Blue Bird Lily is sure to add a unique beauty and color to any garden, whether planted outdoors or brought indoors as cut flowers. These lilies can brighten any landscape or a floral arrangement with proper care and attention.
16. Brindisi Lily
The Brindisi Lily is an exotic bloom native to the Mediterranean region. Boasting a vibrant yellow-orange hue, this unique lily is distinctive in its appearance.
Its petals are slightly ruffled around the edges, and its eye-catching color stands out amongst other flowers. A symbol of joy, beauty, and hope, the Brindisi Lily makes for a gorgeous addition to any home or garden.
Regarding care requirements, the Brindisi Lily prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. If cared for correctly, it can grow up to two feet tall and reward you with a beautiful display of blooms from late spring through early summer.
When watering your Brindisi Lily, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Fertilize your Brindisi Lily regularly for optimal growth and to ensure it blooms yearly.
The Brindisi Lily is a great choice for those seeking an exotic, vibrant flower. With its unique shape and color, this lily makes a stunning addition to any outdoor space or decor.
If you want to add warmth and brightness to your garden this season, the Brindisi Lily is worth considering.
With its easy-care requirements and beautiful display of blooms, this hardy lily will make your home or garden look gorgeous year after year.
17. California Sunset Lily
The California Sunset Lily is a hybrid of the Tiger and Longiflorums lilies, both native to Oregon and California. This hybrid is one of the hardiest lilies that can be grown outdoors in all climates.
The flowers grow 6-7 inches across and come in shades of yellow, orange, pink, and red with vibrant stripes and speckles. The petals have a velvet-like texture with subtle ruffled edges.
California Sunset Lilies have strong stems that do not require staking and will typically reach heights between 2-3 feet tall when fully mature. They bloom from mid-spring until early summer, lasting up to two weeks if cared for properly.
These plants can withstand various conditions, including drought, and are relatively low maintenance, only requiring regular watering and occasional fertilizing. They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade and will thrive in any soil type that is well draining.
The California Sunset Lily makes a beautiful addition to any garden or flower bed and will bring a bright splash of color wherever it is grown. With its unique petal pattern and long-lasting blooms, this hybrid lily is one of nature’s wonders.
These plants can be easily propagated through division or by seed if desired. When dividing the plants, ensure each division has an adequate number of roots attached for proper growth.
Depending on the climate, lilies may need to be dug up and brought indoors during winter to ensure they survive. Lilies are great for flower gardens, cutting gardens, and even containers!
No matter where you choose to plant them, the California Sunset Lily is sure to be an eye-catching addition to your garden.
With its striking colors, long blooming season, and easy maintenance requirements, this hybrid lily is perfect for anyone looking to add vibrant beauty to their garden.
18. Orange Canna Lily
The orange canna lily is a beautiful, easy-to-care-for perennial that makes an excellent addition to any garden. Native to tropical climates, these warm and sunny flowers thrive in many areas of the United States.
One of the larger members of the Canna Lily family, with some plants reaching heights of up to 7 feet tall, the orange canna lily dramatically affects any landscape.
These lovely blooms feature bright and vibrant orange petals with yellow throats and are beloved for their unique shapes and stunning colors.
The foliage of the orange canna lily is just as attractive as its blossoms boasting large green leaves that help create a lush, tropical look in your garden.
The flowers of the orange canna lily typically bloom from late spring through early autumn, making them a fantastic addition to your garden for an extended period.
Due to their tropical nature, these plants thrive in warm and sunny conditions with ample moisture. Planting in well-draining soil rich in organic matter will provide the best results.
While overwatering can harm the plant, it should still receive regular watering throughout its growing season. Additional water may be necessary during hot spells or excessively windy days in warmer climates.
Additionally, fertilizing every few weeks during its blooming period can help promote strong growth and vibrant flowering.
Regular pruning is also important when caring for orange canna lilies as it helps promote healthy growth and keeps the plant neat.
Once the flowers have finished, cut them down to the ground and keep an eye on any new shoots that may appear.
These should be pinched back regularly throughout the season to ensure your plants’ good shape and overall health.
Overall, orange canna lilies are a lovely addition to any garden. Their unique shapes and vibrant colors add a touch of tropical beauty that will bring life and excitement to your outdoor space.
With proper care, these delightful flowers can thrive in almost any area of the United States for many years.
Conclusion
Lilies are a beautiful way to add color and life to any garden. Whether you choose the hardy California Sunset Lily or the vibrant orange canna lily, you’ll surely enjoy its unique beauty for many seasons.
These lovely lilies require full sun and regular watering but are otherwise low-maintenance, making them an ideal choice for bright blooms with minimal effort.
Each type has unique features, allowing you to pick which is best suited for your landscape. No matter what variety of lilies you choose, they will surely bring a colorful splash of beauty and joy to any outdoor space.
