Lilium speciosum var. rubrum
lily bulb
- Position: partial shade
- Soil: moist, acidic soil
- Rate of growth: fast-growing
- Flowering period: July to August
- Hardiness: fully hardy
- Bulb size: 14/16
In late summer and early autumn sprays of large, fragrant, deep carmine-pink flowers with purple-brown stems are produced. The flowers are usually pendant and similar to a turkscap lily, although larger. This lily needs moist, acid soil in partial shade to thrive, so is perfect for naturalising in woodlands. - Garden care: Lilies can be planted at any time from early autumn to mid-spring. Planting in autumn often helps them settle in and become better established before they start to put on their new spring growth, but spring planting is a better option if your soil is heavy and wet during winter. Choose a sunny spot, preferably where the plant receives a little light shade at its base, and plant each bulb 15-20cm deep in a well-drained soil, enriched with well-rotted organic matter or leaf mould. Space them at 15-30cm intervals and provide support before the flowers appear. Deadhead the faded blooms promptly and cut the dead stems back to ground level at the end of autumn.
- Cats: TOXIC if eaten; Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten