Alphabetical Plant Listing

Most Fragrant Oriental Lilies


When it comes to fragrance, Lilies have few rivals. Their exquisite and lovely perfume combined with the dazzling beauty of their flowers are enough to transport you to tropical climes or lift your spirit when passing by. However, not all Lilies are fragrant. For instance, most of the Asiatic Hybrid Lilies, which are among the earliest to bloom in early-mid summer and the easiest to grow are unscented. Other Lilies emit a subtle scent and are agreeably fragrant while others exude such an overpowering perfume that it is sometimes felt as "overwhelming".

  • Known as the most flamboyant personalities within the world of lilies, Oriental Hybrid Lilies are characterized by their immense flowersintense fragrance and rich colors. Exotic-looking, these Oriental hybrids are derived from species native to Japan. 
  • Blooming over a long period of time, from mid to late summer and even into fall for some varieties, their flowers are usually large and open, outward facing or pendant with striking patterns of spots. Most Oriental Lilies are in shades of white, pink and red, some with pretty yellow bands on their petals.
  • Intensely scented, from the first blossom opening until when the last petal falls, they all are among the most popular of cut flowers among florists.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 7
Plant Type Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Lilium - Lilies
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Cutting Garden, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Lilium - Lilies Great Plant Combination Ideas with Lilium - Lilies Guides with Lilium - Lilies

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 7
Plant Type Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Lilium - Lilies
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Cutting Garden, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Lilium - Lilies Great Plant Combination Ideas with Lilium - Lilies Guides with Lilium - Lilies

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