Lilium bulbiferum var. croceum (Orange Lily)

Hardy and undemanding, Lilium bulbiferum var. croceum (Orange Lily) is one of the most beautiful Lily species with its flamboyant, wide open, brilliant orange flowers, up to 2-3 in. wide (5-8 cm), that deepen to red toward the petal tips. The blossoms are elegantly spotted with dark chocolate raised freckles. Unlike most Lily species which favor pendant blossoms to protect their pollen supplies, Lilium bulbiferum features upward-facing flowers, seeking to attract passing insects to help with pollination. Native to Southern Europe, this strong, exuberant, and fast-growing Lily is one of the earliest Lilies to bloom in the garden. Mature bulbs usually produce up to 6-7 blossoms, but it has been recorded as several times as many.

This wild Lily makes a first-rate garden plant and can be easily grown without too much fuss. It will increase and multiply happily. As opposed to Lilium bulbiferum which spreads via bulbils, Lilium bulbiferum var. croceum has no bulbils.

• Blooming in early summer, this lily comes back year after year and constitutes an excellent border plant, providing striking color and contrast to the perennial border and mixes beautifully with annuals and other summer flowering bulbs. This Lily is well suited to containers.
• Growing up to 3-4 feet tall (90-120 cm) on rigid stems clad with polished, medium-green leaves, Orange Lilies perform best in full sun or part shade. They are not fussy about soils, provided they are well-drained. Good moisture is required, and dry soils should be avoided!
• Plant in spring or fall. Plant in groups of 3 bulbs at a minimum for a striking display! When flowering is over, cut back leaves and stems after they turn yellow.
• Toxic to cats (though not for dogs or any known species)
• These Lilies are members of the Species and cultivars of species Division (IX), which includes all species and their subspecies, varieties, and forms, and cultivars selected therefrom (excluding those derived from formosanum, longiflorum, philippinense and wallichianum). There are 9 different types of lilies classified by the Royal Horticultural Society. And they are all real eye-catchers!