“Evergreen lily” is a popular gardening term that often causes confusion. It generally refers to plants that maintain foliage year-round and produce showy, lily-like flowers. However, this term does not denote a single botanical species or a true lily from the Lilium genus. Understanding the plants commonly grouped under this umbrella term helps clarify expectations and ensures proper care.
Understanding the Evergreen Lily Term
The term “evergreen lily” is a common name, not a precise botanical classification. True lilies belong to the Lilium genus, characterized by bulbs and specific flower structures. Plants called “evergreen lilies” typically lack these characteristics, despite their flowers resembling true lilies. This common name describes plants that retain foliage year-round and have showy, often trumpet-shaped blooms. While descriptive, it can be misleading for those seeking specific botanical information.
Common Plants Referred to as Evergreen Lilies
Several plant genera are frequently called “evergreen lilies” due to their persistent foliage and attractive, often trumpet-shaped flowers. Prominent examples include Clivia miniata, Agapanthus africanus, and certain evergreen Hemerocallis varieties.
Clivia miniata, known as Natal Lily or Bush Lily, is an evergreen perennial. It features strap-like, dark green leaves and clusters of orange, red, or yellow funnel-shaped flowers on tall stalks, typically in late winter or early spring. Native to South African woodlands, it thrives in shaded conditions, making it suitable for indoor or shaded garden spots.
Agapanthus africanus, or African Lily/Lily of the Nile, is another plant often called an “evergreen lily.” It forms clumps of arching, strap-like leaves and produces striking spherical clusters of blue, purple, or white trumpet-shaped flowers on tall stems during summer and early autumn. While some Agapanthus are deciduous, Agapanthus africanus is evergreen, especially in milder climates.
Evergreen Hemerocallis, or daylilies, also fit this informal category. Many daylilies are deciduous, but specific cultivars retain green leaves year-round, particularly in warmer regions. These plants have grass-like foliage and produce a succession of large, colorful, lily-like flowers, though each bloom lasts only one day. They are popular for their hardiness and adaptability.
General Care for Evergreen Lily Plants
Caring for plants commonly known as “evergreen lilies” involves understanding their light, soil, water, nutrient, and temperature requirements. While specific needs vary among Clivia, Agapanthus, and evergreen Hemerocallis, general guidelines ensure their health and blooming.
Light
These plants generally prefer bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch Clivia miniata leaves. Agapanthus and evergreen Hemerocallis tolerate full sun, though some Hemerocallis may bleach in scorching conditions. At least six hours of sunlight daily promotes robust flowering.
Soil
Well-draining soil is essential for “evergreen lilies” to prevent root rot. Clivia prefers a coarse, well-drained potting mix, like orchid mixes. Agapanthus thrives in fertile, light, sandy loam with good drainage, tolerating slightly acidic to neutral pH. Evergreen Hemerocallis adapt to various soil types, including clay, but prefer fertile, moist, well-drained conditions. Adding organic matter improves drainage and fertility.
Watering
Watering needs vary by species and season, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Clivia prefers to dry out between waterings during the growing season, with significantly reduced watering in winter. Agapanthus needs about an inch of water weekly, reducing once mature, and no water during dormant periods. Evergreen Hemerocallis prefer moisture in spring and summer but tolerate drought once established, though flowering may decrease. Potted plants require regular watering with excellent drainage.
Fertilization
Clivia benefits from a balanced liquid houseplant feed weekly during active growth after flowering, stopping by mid-September. Agapanthus can be fertilized in spring and again after two months, or with a slow-release organic fertilizer yearly in late winter. Evergreen Hemerocallis generally do not require heavy feeding, but a general-purpose fertilizer in spring can boost growth. Over-fertilization, especially with nitrogen, promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Temperature and Pruning
Clivia needs a cool, dry winter rest period, ideally around 10°C (50°F), for reliable flowering. They are sensitive to frost and need protection from freezing temperatures. Agapanthus thrives in USDA zones 6-11, with evergreen types needing protection in colder winters. Evergreen Hemerocallis are hardy and generally do not need winter protection, though foliage may be injured in very cold climates. Pruning is minimal, involving removal of spent flower stalks and old foliage to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.
Propagating Evergreen Lily Plants
Propagating plants commonly known as “evergreen lilies” is typically achieved through division, the most reliable method for creating new plants identical to the parent.
Clivia miniata
Division involves separating young offsets from the main plant, usually during repotting. Offsets should be at least 20-25 cm tall and carefully cut from the mother plant’s rhizome. Pot separated offsets into well-draining compost, ensuring the leaf base is at the soil line. While Clivia can be grown from seed, plants may take five or more years to flower.
Agapanthus africanus
Agapanthus africanus is readily propagated by dividing its fleshy rhizomes. This is best done in spring, early summer, or after autumn flowering. Lift the clump and divide it into sections, ensuring each has roots and foliage. Replant divisions directly into the garden or containers. Seed propagation is possible, but plants may take two to five years to bloom, and hybrids may not come true to type.
Evergreen Hemerocallis
Evergreen Hemerocallis are easily propagated by dividing established clumps every few years, ideally in spring or autumn. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with a fan of leaves. Division creates new plants and reinvigorates the parent, promoting continued abundant flowering. Seed propagation is an option, primarily used by hybridizers, and offspring may not be identical to the parent.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper care, “evergreen lilies” can encounter issues with flowering, pests, and diseases.
Lack of Blooms
A frequent concern is a lack of blooms, often due to insufficient sunlight, improper watering, or nutrient imbalances. Most “evergreen lilies” need adequate bright, indirect light or full sun to flower profusely. Overwatering causes root rot, inhibiting flowering, while under-watering stresses the plant. Excessive nitrogen fertilizer promotes foliage over flowers; a balanced fertilizer is recommended. Overcrowding also reduces blooms, making division beneficial every few years.
Pests
Common pests include mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses on leaf undersides or joints, feeding on sap. Aphids cluster on new growth, causing distortion. Spider mites cause leaf speckling and fine webs, especially in dry conditions. Solutions include spraying with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or dabbing pests with rubbing alcohol.
Diseases
While generally robust, these plants can be susceptible to certain diseases. Root rot, caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leads to yellowing leaves, wilting, and a mushy base. Fungal infections like powdery mildew, a white powdery growth on leaves, occur in humid conditions or with insufficient air circulation. Leaf spot diseases can also affect foliage. Good air circulation, proper watering, and well-draining soil prevent most diseases. Remove affected plant parts; in severe cases, use appropriate fungicides. Hemerocallis gall midge causes swollen flower buds that fail to open on daylilies; remove and destroy affected buds to prevent spread.