Pink lily trees are a favored choice for gardeners seeking a vibrant addition to their landscapes. These impressive plants are celebrated for their towering stature and abundant, showy pink blooms. Their striking appearance makes them a focal point, enhancing any garden space. This guide explores cultivating these plants to ensure they thrive.
What is a Pink Lily Tree?
A “pink lily tree” is a common name for specific hybrid lilies, often called ‘Tree Lilies’ or ‘Orienpet Lilies’. These are interspecific crosses, typically between Oriental and Trumpet lilies, bred for exceptional height and vigor. They combine the robust nature of Trumpet lilies with the large, fragrant blooms of Oriental lilies. These hybrids can reach impressive heights of 6 to 8 feet or more by their third season, though some varieties start at 3-4 feet in their first year.
Pink lily trees typically bloom from mid to late summer, displaying large, often upward-facing, fragrant pink flowers. Their substantial stems are sturdy, and the plants offer improved disease resistance and hardiness compared to their parent species.
Planting Guide
Plant pink lily tree bulbs in the fall, allowing roots to establish before spring growth. They can also be planted in early spring once the soil is workable.
Select a site with full sun to partial shade, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent bulb rot. Amend heavy clay or sandy soil with organic matter, such as peat moss or ground bark, to a depth of 10 inches. Plant bulbs pointed end up, 6 to 12 inches deep and 8 to 12 inches apart. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Ongoing Care
Light
Pink lily trees require a minimum of six hours of direct sun for vigorous growth and prolific blooming. While they tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates, insufficient light can result in stretched stems and reduced flower production. In intensely hot regions, morning sun with some afternoon shade helps protect blooms from scorching.
Water
Pink lily trees need consistent moisture, especially during active growth and dry spells. Keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot. Water deeply, ensuring moisture reaches the bulb’s root zone. Reduce watering as foliage yellows and the plant enters dormancy.
Soil and Fertilization
Pink lily trees prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil during planting. For ongoing nourishment, apply a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer (e.g., 4-10-6) three times a year: at fall planting, in early spring as sprouts emerge, and when flowers fade. Alternatively, apply a liquid fertilizer high in phosphorus and potassium (e.g., 5-10-10 or 10-15-15 NPK ratio) every two weeks during the growing season to support flower production.
Support and Maintenance
Due to their height, pink lily trees may need support, especially in windy locations or when heavy flower heads emerge. Staking prevents bending or breakage. Place bamboo stakes or other garden supports near the plant, tying the stem loosely with soft twine below flower clusters. Deadhead spent blooms by snipping them just below the faded flower, leaving as much stem and foliage as possible. This redirects the plant’s energy to the bulb, promoting stronger blooms in subsequent years.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Pink lily trees can encounter common problems. The lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) is a notable pest that defoliates plants by feeding on leaves. Both adults and their larvae, which often camouflage themselves with excrement, cause damage. Manual removal helps manage infestations. Aphids and lily thrips are other pests; neem oil controls some soft-bodied insects.
Fungal diseases include botrytis blight and basal rot. Botrytis blight appears as brown spots on leaves and flowers, often with fuzzy gray mold in damp conditions. Mitigate it by ensuring good air circulation and removing infected plant debris. Basal rot, caused by soil-borne fungi, leads to bulb decay, indicated by yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Prevent basal rot by improving soil drainage and planting disease-free bulbs. Yellowing leaves can also indicate improper watering, such as overwatering or insufficient water during dry periods.
Winterizing Your Pink Lily Tree
To prepare pink lily trees for winter dormancy, cut stalks just above ground level after flowering and when foliage naturally yellows and dies back. Do not cut stems prematurely, as leaves store energy in the bulb for next year’s blooms.
Once the ground cools, typically after a few hard frosts, apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch (e.g., straw or oak leaves) over the planting area. This mulch insulates bulbs from temperature fluctuations. Orienpet hybrids are hardy in USDA Zones 3-8 and generally do not require lifting for winter storage. Good drainage is paramount, as waterlogged conditions during winter are more detrimental than cold temperatures.