Lilium 'Dubonette'
 |
ORIENTAL LILY
Family: Liliaceae
Pronounced: LEE-lee-um
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Bulbs.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: All.
USDA zones: 5-9.
Mature size:
Height: 3-4 feet (1 m).
Flowering period:
July.
Flowering attributes:
Crimson-pink with white margins and crimson speckles.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Humus rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
Feeding:
In spring, when lilies are at the spear stage of growth (like asparagus), fertilize with a complete organic fertilizer. Do not feed again for the rest of the year; excessive fertilizing can promote disease and soft growth.
Propagation Methods:
As soon as the foliage dies back, dig bulbs and remove scales, bulbils and offsets from bulb; immediately replant.
Pruning Methods:
Remove dried stems only after foliage dies back.
Rainy Side Notes
The spicy fragrance of this oriental lily can reach across a garden and spill out into the street. I know when it is in bloom, people walking by comment on its heavenly aroma. There is not a lot of information on this cultivar. However, in my Pacific Northwest garden it performs well.
Harvest flowers when the first blossom opens. The flowers last from 5-9 days in the vase. Pull the pollen sacks off when the flower opens to keep pollen from staining linens beneath the vase. If pollen should get on clothes or linens, let it dry before wiping it off. If wiped when wet, the pollen will stain.
To grow lilies well, mulch with composted manures or compost and shredded bark, to keep the roots cool while adding humus to the soil.
Article: Oriental Lilies for the Summer Garden
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
Questions, comments or suggestions? Would you like to communicate with other Pacific Northwest gardeners? Please join us on our forum.