Lilium 'White Stargazer'

ORIENTAL LILY
Family: Liliaceae
Pronounced: LEE-lee-um

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes

---

GROWING GUIDE

Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Bulbs.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: All.
USDA zones: 3-10.
Heat zones: 8-1.
Mature size:
Height: 30-35 inches (76-88 cm).
Flowering period:
July.
Flowering attributes:
Star-shaped, white petals recurved at the tips.
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

Lilium 'White Stargazer' is the most popular of the white upright lilies and used by many for forcing. In fact, Peter Schenk bred it with forcing and the cut flower trade in mind. However, L. 'Siberia' and L. 'Jan de Graaf', two other upright whites, are not far behind in popularity. Like most Oriental lilies, white stargazer lily is deliciously fragrant.

Cut flowers when the first flower is first opening. The flower lasts 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:

More Liliums.

Photographed in author's garden.