The genus Lilium encompasses a wide variety of popular ornamental flowers, which are highly valued for their striking colors and forms. When considering the question of their fragrance, the answer is complex because the perception of smell is highly individual and depends significantly on the specific lily variety. While some lilies are celebrated for their strong, sweet aroma, others possess little to no detectable scent.
The Direct Answer: Why Scent Varies
Whether a lily has a noticeable scent depends on its genetic makeup and the biological purpose of its fragrance production. The primary function of floral scent is to attract specific pollinators, such as moths, bees, or flies, which is necessary for the plant’s reproduction. Different lily species have evolved to produce distinct chemical mixtures to target their particular insect partners.
The intensity of the scent is not constant, even in highly fragrant varieties, because it is influenced by environmental conditions. Factors like the time of day, temperature, and humidity can significantly affect the rate at which the flower releases its volatile compounds. For instance, some lilies release their strongest fragrance at night to attract nocturnal moths, while others are more potent during warm, sunny daytime hours.
Categorizing Lily Scents
Lily varieties can generally be grouped into three main categories based on their scent profile. Oriental lilies are the most widely known for their powerful, heady fragrance, often described as sweet, spicy, or heavy. Varieties like ‘Stargazer’ and ‘Casa Blanca’ are particularly potent, producing a strong aroma from a complex mixture of compounds that can easily fill a room.
Trumpet lilies and their hybrids generally offer a milder, sometimes more clove-like or citrusy fragrance, often retaining a pleasant sweetness without the intensity of the Orientals. These varieties provide a noticeable scent that is less likely to be considered overpowering. Conversely, most Asiatic hybrids are known for being unscented or having only trace amounts of volatile compounds, making them an excellent choice for individuals with scent sensitivities or those preferring only visual appeal.
The lack of scent in Asiatic lilies is a result of breeding selection, as they do not emit any detectable volatile compounds. This difference in scent is directly tied to the ancestral species used in the development of these modern hybrids. The scent quality can also be polarizing; while many find the Oriental lily aroma intoxicating, some describe it as excessively sweet or unpleasant.
The Science Behind the Fragrance
Lily fragrance is produced and released by the flower petals, specifically the tepals, in the form of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These airborne chemical molecules are synthesized through different plant metabolic pathways, primarily the terpenoid and benzenoid/phenylpropanoid pathways. The combination and concentration of these VOCs determine the unique scent of each lily variety.
Monoterpenoids and benzenoids are the most dominant classes of compounds in fragrant lilies. Key compounds include linalool, which contributes a floral, slightly spicy note, and methyl benzoate, often described as sweet and fruity. Another common component is (E)-β-ocimene, a monoterpenoid that adds a green or herbaceous quality. The presence of these compounds in high concentrations is what gives Oriental lilies their characteristic strong aroma.
Managing Lily Fragrance Indoors
When using highly fragrant cut lilies in a home, placing the arrangement in a well-ventilated area helps disperse the volatile compounds. Placing them in a large room or near an open window prevents the aroma from concentrating too heavily. This simple step is effective when dealing with the powerful scent of varieties like ‘Stargazer’.
A common practice to mitigate an overpowering scent and reduce mess is the removal of the anthers, the pollen-bearing tips of the stamens. While the tepals are the primary source of VOCs, removing the pollen prevents staining and can slightly lessen the overall fragrance intensity. For those who find the fragrance of any lily too strong, selecting unscented Asiatic hybrid varieties is the most direct solution to enjoy the visual beauty without the aroma.