Pine lily (Lilium catesbaei) is a type of lily that grows in coastal portions of the southeastern United States. It is one of the few lily species that prefer hot, wet conditions and acidic soils. Each pine lily stalk produces only a single spotted flower, giving rise to other names like leopard lily and southern red lily.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Lilium catesbaei, sometimes known as Catesby’s lily, pine lily, leopard lily, tiger lily, or southern-red lily is a native of Florida and the coastal regions of the American Southeast, where it usually grows in damp areas from Louisiana to Virginia.
Lilium catesbaei requires hot, wet, acidic soil inhospitable to most other lily species. Producing a single flower, it generally blooms late in the year. The flower is upright with 6 tepals (petals and sepals that look very similar). The petals are curved backward and are orange toward the tip, yellow and purple-spotted toward the base.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Pine lily prefers filtered sunlight. If it is too strong, it can damage the quality of the flowers and the whole plant. Most lilies require between four and six hours (or more) of sunlight. With more sunlight, the plant will be able to make more food and produce more leaves and flowers.
If your pine lily is planted in a place that receives great amounts of strong, direct sunlight, around 30% of the sunlight should be blocked. If planted in a garden, it should be planted at the edges of shrubbery or besides fences.
Temperature
The optimum temperature during the growth period is 16 to 25 ℃. If temperatures exceed 28 ℃, the plant will be shorter, there will be fewer flower buds, and blind (non-productive) buds may appear. When rooting, the soil temperature should be maintained at 12 to 15 ℃.
When temperatures fall below 13 ℃ at night, the leaves can turn yellow and fall off. The plant stops growing below 8 ℃. Pine lily are not resistant to freezing temperatures, and bulbs should be harvested and stored during the fall.
In the high temperatures of summer, water continuously cools the plant and the soil temperature. Lilies should be watered immediately after planting and once every two or three days after that. They require about 2.5 cm of water each week.
Stop watering 10 days before harvesting the bulbs, as pine lily are not resistant to standing water. High soil humidity can cause seedlings to die. Therefore, pay attention to drainage during rainy seasons.
Watering
Pine lily thrives in its native environment with consistent moisture, indicative of its preference for well-hydrated soil without being waterlogged. As a plant that balances moisture needs adeptly, it requires watering every week to maintain this equilibrium. Typically found in the understory of wetlands, pine lily has adapted to environments where water is ample but not excessive. It’s an outdoor species that, during its growing season, relies on regular rainfall patterns to sustain its lush growth and vibrant blooms.
Soil
Plant pine lily in loose, fertile, and slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Continuously growing lilies in the same place can significantly reduce the quality of the flowers, so plant them in well-drained, thick, sandy loam where no Liliaceae plants have been planted before.
Fertilizing
For optimal growth, fertilize pine lily with balanced nutrition fertilizers, switching to high phosphorus fertilizers during the blooming period. Apply every 4-6 weeks during active growth in spring and summer. A modest amount, following package instructions, is sufficient. Over-fertilization can damage pine lily, so ensure application is accurate. Fertilization boosts vigor and supports vibrant blooms. Seasonal adjustments are essential; reduce feeding in fall and withhold in winter. Use a slow-release formula for steady nutrient delivery or a liquid fertilizer for quick uptake. Always water pine lily after fertilizing to distribute nutrients and prevent root burn.
Planting Instructions
Pine lily is widely available in local flower shops or from many online distributors. Select a plump bulb with robust roots that is free of pests and diseases and has a flat, round top. Soak the bulb in fungicide and dry it before planting.
The optimum planting time is the end of autumn, but pine lily can also be planted in spring. If planted in fall, the plant will grow roots first. If planted in spring, buds will germinate first. Plant as early as possible after the spring thaw to avoid damage from cold temperatures.
When planting, position the bulb with the top of the bud upwards and roots downwards. Cover with soil two to three times the bulb height thick. Water thoroughly to moisten, but not so much as to accumulate water. While growing, support weak stems with stakes.
Pruning
When buds emerge, the terminal (main) bud should be removed to reduce nutrient consumption, transfer nutrients to the bulb, and help the bulb expand. At the same time, remove the buds growing where the shoot grows out of the main stem (the leaf axil).
Pinch buds off after the dew has dried on a sunny morning. Damaged, dead, or excessively long branches should be removed to look nicer and keep the lily healthy. After blooming, prune withered flowers to facilitate the blooming of other buds.
Propagation
Pine lily thrives when propagated through division, a method that allows gardeners to efficiently multiply their stock. For successful propagation, the division should be performed carefully to avoid root damage. Gardeners should ensure that each division has at least one growth point. Once separated, replant the divisions promptly in well-drained soil, providing sufficient water to encourage establishment without causing rot. This approach promotes healthy growth and bloom in subsequent seasons.
Transplanting
The optimum time to transplant pine lily is during the late spring to early summer nexus, ensuring a gentle introduction to warm, growing conditions. Choose moist, well-drained locations with partial shade. Remember, pine lily thrives with minimal disturbance, so be delicate.
III. Harvesting and Storage
Harvest freshly cut flowers in the evening or early morning of a sunny day. Freshly harvested flowers should be kept away from direct sunlight and can be stored in cold storage for fresh-keeping.
