The Lilium speciosum is an East Asian plant native to southern Japan and China. Commonly called the showy lily, it only blooms from summer to fall. This flowering plant is mostly grown in gardens because of its attractive aesthetics.
I. Appearance and CharacteristicsÂ
Lilium speciosum (Showy Japanese Lily) is an East Asian species of plants in the lily family. It is native to southern Japan and southern China, where it can be found at elevations of 600–900 meters (2,000–3,000 ft). It is sometimes called the Japanese lily though there are other species with this common name.
Lilium speciosum grows up to 1.2 meters (3 ft 11 in) tall and 0.3 meters (1 ft 0 in) wide, blooming from August to September in north temperate regions. The flowers are white to pink in color, and strongly scented. It is later flowering than most other species. Many garden forms are in cultivation, and the species has been widely used for breeding of garden forms.
Lilium speciosum contains phenolic glycosides, such as 6′-O-feruloylsucrose and (25R,26R)-26-methoxyspirost-5-en-3β-ol 3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-glucopyranoside, and steroidal saponins.
Varieties
- Lilium speciosum var. gloriosoides Baker – China, Taiwan
- Lilium speciosum var. speciosum – Japan (Shikoku, Kyushu)
II. How to Grow and Care
Showy lily requires a moderate level of care, thriving best in well-drained soil with adequate watering. Special care must be taken to ensure soil moisture is consistent without waterlogging, and to provide support for the tall stems when in bloom. Staking the plants or providing a sheltered location can help protect the heavy blooms from wind damage.
Sunlight
Showy 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 showy 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 ℃. Showy 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 showy lily are not resistant to standing water. High soil humidity can cause seedlings to die. Therefore, pay attention to drainage during rainy seasons.
Watering
Originating from moist, temperate regions, showy lily thrives in consistently hydrated soil, mirroring its natural predilection for a damp environment. This species exhibits a preference for moderate moisture and should be watered once every 1-2 weeks to maintain its health. As an outdoor plant that flourishes under the canopy of larger flora, showy lily benefits greatly from mulching which helps retain soil moisture and mimics the leaf litter of its native habitat.
Soil
Plant showy 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 showy lily, utilize balanced nutrition fertilizers during active growth, shifting to high phosphorus types pre-bloom for vigorous growth and stunning flowers. Fertilize bi-weekly in spring and summer, reducing in fall and ceasing in winter. Apply as per package instructions, avoiding over-fertilization which can damage showy lily. Seasonal adjustments optimize nutrient uptake, enhancing plant health and bloom quality. Use a diluted solution to prevent root burn, ensuring effective nourishment.
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
The preferred propagation method for showy lily is tuber division in spring. It has a moderate propagation difficulty. Signs of successful propagation include new shoot emergence. Ensure proper tuber handling to avoid damage.
Transplanting
The best time to transplant showy lily is from early summer to early fall, as this ideal period promotes strong root development. Choose a location with well-drained soil and partial sun exposure. Remember to space plants 8-12 inches apart for optimal growth.
III. Uses and BenefitsÂ
Showy lily is valued in flower gardens for its showy, fragrant blossoms. This species is often cultivated in gardens so that its blossoms can be cut and included in bouquets. It is considered relatively easy to grow and attracts bees and butterflies.
IV. 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.
