Lily
Lilium
Family: Liliaceae · Also called Stargazer, Oriental Lily, Asiatic Lily, Lirium, Martagon
Floral · Summer bloomer
The true lily is one of the most dramatic flowers in the garden, large, trumpet-shaped or recurved blooms on tall, strong stems, often with elaborate spotting and a fragrance that can perfume an entire garden. Not to be confused with the many plants that share its name (daylily, calla lily, lily of the valley), true lilies belong to the genus Lilium and grow from scaly bulbs.
purity, majesty, motherhood, renewal
In the Victorian language of flowers, lily means “Restored innocence and majesty”. The Madonna lily (L. candidum) has been a symbol of the Virgin Mary for centuries, appearing in countless Renaissance paintings. In ancient Greece, lilies were said to have sprung from the milk of Hera. Easter lilies represent resurrection and hope. In China, lilies (baihe) are traditional wedding flowers meaning 'united for a hundred years.'
Did You Know?
Oriental lily pollen is so pigmented it permanently stains fabric and skin. Florists often remove the pollen-bearing anthers for this reason. Lilies are extremely toxic to cats, even a small amount of pollen groomed from fur can cause fatal kidney failure.
Woodlands, meadows, and mountain slopes across temperate Asia, Europe, and North America
Lily is native to Northern Hemisphere. It naturally grows in woodlands, meadows, and mountain slopes across temperate asia, europe, and north america.
Scent Profile
“A powerful, sweet fragrance with green, spicy, and slightly indolic notes, unmistakable and room-filling, one of the strongest flower scents.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameLilium
- FamilyLiliaceae
- Native ToNorthern Hemisphere
- Bloom SeasonSummer
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
The Madonna lily (L. candidum) has been a symbol of the Virgin Mary for centuries, appearing in countless Renaissance paintings. In ancient Greece, lilies were said to have sprung from the milk of Hera. Easter lilies represent resurrection and hope. In China, lilies (baihe) are traditional wedding flowers meaning 'united for a hundred years.'