Lilium (Lily)

Each group of lilies has its own personality. Asiatic Lilies are the easiest to grow, bloom first, and offer the widest color range. Oriental Lilies produce enormous, highly fragrant flowers later in summer. Trumpet Lilies combine elegance with powerful perfume, while Orienpet (OT) Lilies offer giant blooms, sturdy stems, and excellent vigor. Gardeners looking for woodland beauty should explore Martagon Lilies, while lovers of wildflowers will appreciate Species Lilies and colorful Tiger Lilies.

Gardenia recommends: Choose Asiatic lilies for beginners, Oriental lilies for fragrance, Orienpet lilies for dramatic impact, and Martagon lilies for lightly shaded woodland gardens.

If fragrance matters, your choice becomes much easier. Most Asiatic lilies have little or no scent, allowing their vivid colors to take center stage. Oriental lilies are among the most fragrant flowers in the garden, filling the air with rich perfume. Trumpet lilies offer equally powerful fragrance, while many species lilies have lighter, sweeter scents. Compare the most fragrant lilies, including the finest Oriental lilies, Trumpet lilies, and species lilies.

Gardenia recommends: Plant fragrant lilies near patios, walkways, entrances, or seating areas where their perfume can be fully appreciated.

One of the easiest ways to enjoy lilies for weeks is to combine several groups. Early Asiatic lilies are followed by Martagon and Trumpet lilies, then Oriental and Orienpet hybrids. This succession creates a remarkably long display. Browse lilies for long summer blooms or discover how lilies fit among other spectacular summer bulbs. For inspiration, explore Garden Favorites to Stunning Arrangements.

Gardenia recommends: Mix early-, mid-, and late-season lilies rather than planting only one type for a much longer flowering display.

Not every garden has room for towering lilies. Fortunately, many cultivars thrive beautifully in containers, raised beds, and compact borders. Container-grown lilies also make spectacular patio displays and are easier to protect from excessive winter moisture where needed. Explore the best lilies for pots and containers and pair them with these companion plants for lilies or browse beautiful plant combination ideas.

Gardenia recommends: Compact Asiatic and Oriental hybrids are often the easiest and most rewarding lilies for containers.

If you’re unsure where to begin, these proven performers are excellent choices. ‘Stargazer’ remains the world’s most famous Oriental lily, prized for its huge, fragrant flowers. ‘Casa Blanca’ is celebrated for enormous pure-white blooms and unforgettable perfume. Lilium regale is one of the finest trumpet lilies, combining elegance with exceptional fragrance. ‘Black Out’ delivers dramatic deep-red Asiatic flowers on sturdy stems, while ‘Conca d’Or’ is an outstanding Orienpet hybrid with giant lemon-yellow flowers and vigorous growth.

Gardenia recommends: These five lilies together provide an outstanding introduction to the diversity of the genus.

Choose lilies that match your available space, climate, and preferred bloom season rather than buying solely for flower color. Consider mature height, fragrance, flowering period, and whether the bulbs will be grown in borders or containers. Once you’ve selected the right lilies, follow Gardenia’s expert guide to planting and caring for lilies and learn the correct planting depth and spacing for long-term success.

Gardenia recommends: A thoughtful selection made before planting will reward you with healthier plants, longer flowering, and years of spectacular summer displays.