The common orange lily, Lilium bulbiferum, is native to Central Europe and, unlike many lilies, has upward-facing flowers. It gets its botanical name from the fact that it produces bulbils in its upper leaf axils, where the leaf is attached to the stem. These mini bulbs can be planted to produce new lilies, although it can take up to three years to produce flowers from a bulbil. The subspecies, Lilium bulbiferum var croceum, doesn’t produce bulbils, so look for the species if you want to propagate your lilies.
The flowers of Lilium bulbiferum are a vibrant orange-red colour, speckled brown on the inside of the petals, with up to five flowers, sometimes more, held on each stem. The flowers are unscented but make excellent cut flowers because of their upright habit.
How to grow orange lily
Plant orange lily in a sunny area with well-drained soil. Orange lily will grow in acid or alkaline soil, but for those with heavy clay soil, they are better grown in containers.
Where to grow orange lily
Orange lily can be grown in either full sun or partial shade, but does best in a sunny position, where the roots are shaded. Plant them in among ground cover plants and perennials that will provide shade for the lilies’ roots during the summer heat.
How to plant orange lily
Lily bulbs can be planted any time between autumn and the end of March, but avoid planting them when the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Plant 15-20cm deep, with the pointed end of the bulb facing up. It’s easier to dig one hole and plant a group of bulbs, rather than lots of individual holes. Space bulbs 15cm apart.
How to care for orange lily
Water lilies in containers in spring if the soil is dry. Once plants begin flowering, feed with tomato feed every two weeks until the display is over.
After flowering, wait until the foliage has turned yellow before cutting it back.
Propagate by dividing plants once the foliage has died down. Pull the bulbs apart and replant the smaller clumps to create new displays for the following summer.
For orange lilies growing in pots, reduce watering from autumn, so the compost doesn’t become waterlogged. If you need to, you can move pots under cover during very wet weather, or cover them to keep them dry.
Pests and diseases
Be vigilant for early infestations of red lily beetle so you can tackle it before it becomes a major problem. Look out for orange eggs on the underside of leaves, red beetles, larvae on the stems or round holes in the leaves. Remove beetles by hand or, for major infestations, try spraying a garlic solution on the leaves to deter them. You will need to respray the garlic solution regularly, particularly after rain.
Lilies can also be affected by slugs, snails and aphids.
Lilies can also suffer from diseases – the most common is Lily Disease, caused by the fungus Botrytis elliptica. This is characterised by brown, oval spots on the leaves, which can spread and kill the whole leaves. Destroy any leaves affected by the disease to stop it spreading.
Frequently asked questions
Is orange lily annual or perennial?
Orange lily is a perennial, so once the bulbs have been planted it will flower every year.
What does the orange lily symbolise?
Lilies are given different meanings depending on their colour – for example white lilies symbolise purity. According to some of the most well-known florists, orange lilies symbolise confidence and energy. This is probably due to their vibrant, warm colour.
Advice on buying orange lily
- The latin name for common orange lily is Lilium bulbiferum. There are also orange-coloured asiatic lilies if you’re just looking for an orange-coloured lilyÂ
- Always check bulbs for signs or damage or rot, before planting
- Lily bulbs are toxic to cats, so are best avoided if this is a concern
Where to buy orange lily
Varieties of orange lily to grow
Lilium bulbiferum var. croceum has orange flowers, but doesn’t produce bulbils. Height x Spread: 120cm x 50cm
* This article was originally published here
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