Lily

Lilium spp. · Flower

Tall, elegant bulbs with large, often fragrant summer flowers. They like their heads in the sun and their roots cool and shaded. Planted once in well-drained soil, they return and multiply for years.

💧WaterAbout 1 in per week in growth (estimated)

☀️LightSun on top, cool roots

🐾PetsVery dangerous for cats

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun to light shade; roots shaded
Water: About 1 in per week in growth; drier after flowering
Soil: Deep, well-drained, humus-rich, pH 6.0–6.8
Temperature: Hardy bulbs; flowers best with 60–75 °F days
Spacing: 8–12 in apart
Container: At least 3 gallons, 12 in deep, for 3 bulbs
Bloom: Early to late summer, by type (estimated)
Lifespan: Perennial bulb

When?

Plant bulbs in autumn or early spring, as soon as you get them; lily bulbs dry out easily. Potted lilies can go out in spring after the last frost (estimated).

Step by step

Choose firm, plump bulbs and plant them without delay.
Plant 6–8 in deep, about three times the bulb height.
Underplant with low perennials or mulch to keep the roots cool.
Stake tall varieties early, before the stems lean.
Feed with a potassium-rich fertilizer as buds form.
Remove faded flowers but leave stems and leaves until they yellow.
Check regularly for bright red lily beetles and pick them off.
Divide crowded clumps every few years in autumn.

Common problems

Leaves eaten, red beetles presentLily beetle; remove adults and larvae by hand regularly.

Bulbs rot over winterWaterlogged soil; add grit or plant on a slight mound.

Brown spots on leavesFungal leaf spot; improve airflow and remove infected leaves.

Pets

True lilies are extremely dangerous to cats; even pollen, leaves or vase water can cause serious kidney harm. Do not keep them where a cat can reach. Contact a vet straight away if a cat has had any contact.

Similar plants

Daffodil Peony Tulip

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.