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Hemerocallis (Daylilies)

Early Season Daylilies, Midseason Daylilies, Late Season Daylilies, Everblooming Daylilies

Hemerocallis, daylilies, Daylily, Day Lilies, summer flowers, drought tolerant flower, day lily, Hemerocallidaceae, best perennials, plant

Often called the ‘perfect perennial’ because of its numerous qualities: showy flowers, the wide array of vibrant colors, drought tolerance, heat stress immunity, ability to grow in most hardiness zones, and low care requirements, Daylily (Hemerocallis) is a remarkable and stunning addition to the garden!

What is Daylily?

Hemerocallis, commonly known as daylily due to each flower’s one-day lifespan, is a genus of perennial plants in the family Asphodelaceae. Native to Eurasia, these plants are cultivated worldwide for their showy flowers and hardiness. A key fact about daylilies is their immense popularity among breeders and hobbyists. There are over 80,000 registered cultivars, all bred from an original handful of species, showing the incredible genetic diversity and adaptability of these plants.

Habit and Size: Daylilies grow in an arching fountain-like form, typically reaching heights of 1 to 4 feet (30-120 cm).

Foliage: Individual leaves are long and slender, giving the plant a grass-like appearance. It is a lovely asset as it provides texture and color when the flowers are not in bloom. The foliage may be dormant (the leaves die back in winter), evergreen (In mild climates, the leaves remain green all winter), or semi-evergreen.

Flowers: However, what truly steals the show are the lily-like flowers that bloom atop tall, leafless stalks called scapes, standing tall above the foliage.

  • Each flower typically lasts no more than 24 hours (thus the common name ‘Daylily’), opening up in the morning and withering during the forthcoming night, possibly replaced by another one on the same scape (flower stalk) the next day.
  • Some species are night-blooming. They open late in the afternoon and stay open throughout the evening until the morning. If you spend time in the garden late in the day, these are the perfect daylilies for you!
  • Flowers of Hemerocallis species and cultivars can come in a vast array of colors and forms, including shades of yellow, orange, red, purple, pink, and near-white. Some are bicolor, others have contrasting “eyes” or edges, and flower sizes can range from small, under 3 inches (7 cm) in diameter, to huge, over 4.5 inches (11 cm).
  • Many daylilies also emit a sweet fragrance, particularly in the evening.

Blooming Season: It varies depending on the variety; some bloom in early summer, others in late summer, or in the case of repeat-bloomers, they can provide flowers almost continually from June until frost.

  • Daylilies have a relatively short blooming period, 1 to 5 weeks, and depending on their variety and your area, they may bloom from spring until frost. Mixing varieties would prolong their color blossoms in the garden.
  • Extra Early‘ Daylilies: These daylilies are the first to bloom, and vary from March or April in the extreme South to May or June in the North.
  • Early‘ Daylilies: These daylilies bloom three to five weeks prior to the mass of blooms at midseason.
  • Early Midseason‘ Daylilies: These daylilies bloom one to three weeks before the height of bloom of most cultivars.
  • Midseason’ Daylilies: These daylilies bloom in your garden at the peak of the daylily bloom. This ranges from May in the South to July in the North.
  • Late Midseason‘ Daylilies: These daylilies bloom one to three weeks after the height or peak of bloom in your garden.
  • Late’ Daylilies: These daylilies bloom when most others have finished blooming, usually four to six weeks after the season’s peak.
  • ‘Very Late’ Daylilies: These daylilies are the last to bloom, often late in the summer in the South and fall in the North.
  • Reblooming: Some varieties are ‘reblooming’. These daylilies bloom more than one time during a single season. Some of these bloom early (e.g., May or June) and then repeat in the fall. Others have a succession of bloom periods, one shortly after another for several months.

Hardiness: Daylilies are remarkably adaptable, growing in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9. They can tolerate a range of soil types but prefer well-drained, moderately fertile soil.

Uses: Daylilies are extremely versatile. They can be planted in borders, containers, slopes for erosion control, or as a ground cover. They are also frequently used in naturalistic plantings and are particularly useful for their ability to thrive in difficult areas where other plants may struggle.

Pollinators: Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are attracted to daylilies.

Toxicity: Daylilies are safe for humans and dogs but are poisonous for cats.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 2 - 11
Climate Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Perennials
Genus Hemerocallis
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Height 1' - 4'
(30cm - 120cm)
Spread 1' - 2'
(30cm - 60cm)
Spacing 18" - 30"
(50cm - 80cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Drought
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Birds
Landscaping Ideas Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders, Edging
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden
Hemerocallis ‘Bess Ross’ (Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Catherine Woodbury’ (Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Chicago Apache’ (Daylily)

Why Should I Grow Daylily Flowers?

Daylilies are a wonderful addition to any garden for a host of reasons:

  • Easy Maintenance: Daylilies are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in various conditions. They can tolerate a range of soil types and moisture levels, making them easy to maintain. They’re also resistant to many common diseases and pests, reducing the need for constant care.
  • Continuous Blooms: Although each flower only lasts for a day (hence the name), a single daylily plant produces many buds, providing blooms throughout the summer. Some varieties also offer repeat blooming, extending the display further.
  • Variety of Colors and Forms: With over 80,000 registered cultivars, daylilies come in almost every color and form imaginable. This diversity allows you to choose the perfect daylilies to complement your garden’s color scheme and style.
  • Versatility: Daylilies are versatile in terms of planting locations. They can be used in borders, as ground cover, or even in containers. They’re excellent for adding a splash of color to difficult areas, including slopes or areas with poor soil.
  • Attract Wildlife: If you’re aiming to create a garden that invites wildlife, daylilies are a great choice. They attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
  • Edible Flowers: The flowers of daylilies are edible and can be used in salads, soups, and stir-fries. They’re a common ingredient in certain Asian cuisines.
Hemerocallis ‘Blaze of Glory’ (Reblooming Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Princess Tutu’ (Reblooming Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Lies and Lipstick’ (Reblooming Daylily)

Garden Design with Daylilies

Daylilies are remarkably versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of garden designs:

  • Cottage Gardens: Daylilies’ classic form and vibrant colors make them a natural fit for a traditional cottage garden, where an abundance of plants creates a relaxed, colorful display. Mix them with other perennials like roses, foxgloves, and lavender for a diverse planting scheme.
  • Contemporary Gardens: Modern cultivars of daylilies come in a wide variety of shapes and colors, making them suitable for contemporary designs as well. The strap-like foliage adds a textural element that works well with ornamental grasses and sleek architectural plants.
  • Border Planting: Daylilies are excellent border plants. Plant them in large groups of a single variety for a dramatic effect, or mix them with other perennials and shrubs for a more informal look. Taller cultivars can be used at the back of the border, with shorter ones towards the front.
  • Water-Side Planting: Since daylilies can tolerate damp conditions, they are perfect for planting alongside ponds or streams, where they can help to prevent soil erosion.
  • Wildlife Gardens: Daylilies attract pollinators, making them a good choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. Plant them near seating areas where you can enjoy watching the bees and butterflies they attract.
  • Container Gardening: Smaller cultivars of daylilies can be grown in pots or containers. This can be an effective way to add a splash of color to a patio or balcony.

In all these contexts, the key to using daylilies effectively in garden design is to consider their color and form in relation to the other plants in your scheme. This way, you can create a harmonious and visually appealing garden.

Hemerocallis ‘Baja’ (Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Ruby Stella’ (Reblooming Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Tiger Swirl’ (Daylily)

Companion Plants for Daylilies

Daylilies are quite versatile and can be paired with a variety of other plants to create beautiful, diverse garden displays. Here are some excellent companion plants:

  • Salvia: The vibrant blooms of Salvia complement the colors of daylilies, and their upright growth habit creates an attractive contrast.
  • Echinacea (Coneflower): The long-lasting blooms of Echinacea add height and texture to the garden, creating a striking backdrop for daylilies.
  • Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan): The cheerful yellow blooms of Rudbeckia create a lovely contrast when planted alongside daylilies.
  • Coreopsis: With their bright and dainty flowers, Coreopsis adds a touch of whimsy and attracts pollinators to the garden.
  • Agastache (Hyssop): The fragrant blooms of Agastache complement the vibrant colors of daylilies and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
  • Lavender: The aromatic foliage and delicate purple flowers of Lavender create a soothing and visually pleasing combination with daylilies.
  • Nepeta (Catmint): The soft blue flowers of Nepeta provide a cooling effect when planted alongside the warm-toned daylilies.
  • Veronica (Speedwell): The upright spikes of Veronica add vertical interest to the garden and create a pleasing contrast with the ruffled daylily blooms.
  • Gaillardia (Blanket Flower): The vibrant and daisy-like blooms of Gaillardia add a splash of color and attract pollinators to the garden.
  • Achillea (Yarrow): The flat-topped clusters of Achillea flowers create a delicate and airy look that complements the bold blooms of daylilies.
  • Phlox: The dense clusters of Phlox flowers in various shades of pink, purple, or white create a stunning combination with daylilies.
  • Liatris (Blazing Star): The tall and spiky blooms of Liatris add vertical interest and create a striking contrast with the rounded daylily flowers.
  • Geranium (Cranesbill): The low-growing and mounding habit of Geraniums creates a beautiful groundcover that complements the upright daylily foliage.
  • Sedum: The succulent foliage and late-season blooms of Sedum provide a unique texture and add interest to the garden when combined with daylilies.
  • Stachys (Lamb’s Ear): The soft and fuzzy foliage of Stachys creates a lovely contrast with the vibrant daylily blooms and adds a tactile element to the garden.
  • Perovskia (Russian Sage): The silvery foliage and tall spikes of Perovskia create a stunning backdrop for daylilies and add a sense of airiness to the garden.
  • Alchemilla (Lady’s Mantle): The frothy chartreuse flowers and textured foliage of Alchemilla provide a beautiful contrast when planted alongside daylilies.
  • Helenium (Sneezeweed): The warm-toned and daisy-like blooms of Helenium complement the vibrant colors of daylilies and extend the blooming season.

These companion plants enhance the beauty of daylilies and provide a diverse range of colors, textures, and heights to create an aesthetically pleasing and balanced garden.

Hemerocallis ‘Bela Lugosi’ (Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Hyperion’ (Daylily)
Hemerocallis ‘Siloam Amazing Grace’ (Daylily)

Growing Tips

Daylilies are renowned for their hardiness and adaptability, making them relatively easy to grow. Nonetheless, here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

  • Sunlight: Daylilies prefer full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade. In hot climates, some afternoon shade can actually be beneficial.
  • Soil: Plant daylilies in well-draining soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, but perform best in a soil rich in organic matter.
  • Watering: Water newly planted daylilies thoroughly and regularly, but once established, they become quite drought-tolerant. However, for best flowering, it’s good to provide consistent moisture, especially in dry periods.
  • Fertilizer: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in early summer to encourage vigorous growth and blooming.
  • Mulching: A layer of mulch around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Deadheading: While not necessary for plant health, removing spent flowers (deadheading) can keep the plants looking neat and tidy. Some daylilies are “reblooming” varieties that will produce more flowers if the old ones are removed.
  • Pruning: When all the flowers on a scape are finished, cut off the scape close to ground level. Remove dead foliage from daylilies as they die back in the fall.
  • Dividing: Daylilies can be divided every 3-5 years to maintain vigor and flower production. This is best done in early spring or after flowering in late summer or early fall.
  • Pests and Diseases: Daylilies are generally pest and disease-resistant, but keep an eye out for daylily rust (a fungal disease) and pests like aphids and spider mites. Good cultural practices usually prevent most issues.
  • Winter Care: In colder climates, consider mulching around the base of the plant in late fall to provide extra winter protection. Remove this mulch in the spring as the weather warms.

Remember, daylilies are incredibly adaptable and resilient. They can survive less than ideal conditions, but these tips can help maximize their blooming potential and overall health.

Recommended Companion Plants

Echinacea (Coneflower)
Rudbeckia hirta (Black-Eyed Susan)
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender)
Nepeta (Catmint)
Salvia (Sage)
Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage)
Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Agastache (Hyssop)

Garden Examples

A Colorful Summer Border Idea with Hemerocallis, Hosta and Alchemilla
A Shade Loving Border Idea with Hemerocallis, Hosta and Tiger Lilies
A Pastel Border Idea with Astilbes, Hemerocallis and Geranium
A Hot Border Idea with Achillea, Hemerocallis and Grasses
A Colorful Summer Border Idea with Easy-to-Grow Plants
A Lovely Border Idea with Achillea, Agapanthus and Grasses
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Hemerocallis (Daylily)
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 2 - 11
Climate Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Perennials
Genus Hemerocallis
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Height 1' - 4'
(30cm - 120cm)
Spread 1' - 2'
(30cm - 60cm)
Spacing 18" - 30"
(50cm - 80cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Drought
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Birds
Landscaping Ideas Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders, Edging
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden
Compare All Hemerocallis (Daylily)
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Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Hemerocallis (Daylily)

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