Altari Lily, a captivating Orienpet lily hybrid, brings a striking presence and delightful fragrance to garden spaces. These elegant plants are highly sought after for their large, showy blooms, adding sophistication to any landscape. Their impressive appearance and alluring scent make them a popular choice for gardeners.
Altari Lily Characteristics
Altari Lilies produce striking, funnel-shaped flowers, 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) in diameter, opening into a six-sided star with often curling tips. Petals display a creamy white border, transitioning to rich raspberry or crimson throats, with a yellow spear at the interior base. These plants reach heights of 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm), with some varieties growing up to 6.5 feet (200 cm). Their strong, sweet fragrance is noticeable, especially during warmer evenings, making them ideal near patios. Altari Lilies bloom in mid to late summer, adding color when other plants fade.
Planting Altari Lilies
Plant Altari Lily bulbs in fall, allowing roots to establish before winter, or in early spring once soil is workable. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade, ideally at least six hours of daily sunlight, ensuring the plant’s head is in the sun and roots remain cool. Well-draining soil is crucial, as Altari Lilies do not tolerate standing water; a loose, fertile, slightly acidic, sandy loam rich in organic matter is beneficial. Plant bulbs at a depth approximately three times their height, typically 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm), with the pointed end upwards. Space bulbs 10 to 15 inches (25-38 cm) apart for proper air circulation and future multiplication.
Caring for Altari Lilies
Altari Lilies require consistent moisture, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water weekly, especially during dry periods; water thoroughly, allowing the top inch to dry between waterings to prevent waterlogging and bulb rot. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release formula in spring as growth begins, and again during fast growth and bulb enlargement. Tall stems benefit from staking as large blooms develop, preventing bending or breakage. Deadhead spent flowers promptly to prevent seed formation, redirecting energy towards bulb development for the following season. In colder climates (below 8℃), bulbs may require harvesting and storage in fall, though some varieties are hardy to USDA Zone 3 if well-mulched.
Addressing Common Issues
Altari Lilies may face pests and diseases. Common pests include lily beetles, which defoliate plants, and aphids, which weaken them by feeding on sap; hand-picking lily beetles and their larvae is effective, while insecticidal soap or neem oil manages aphids. Fungal diseases like botrytis blight (gray mold, leaf spots) thrive in humidity, and basal rot affects bulbs, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth; prevent these by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected debris. Viral diseases cause discoloration and distorted growth; purchase virus-free bulbs as a preventive measure since there is no cure. Non-blooming can occur from insufficient sunlight or nutrient lack, highlighting proper siting and fertilization.
Altari Lily Safety
Altari Lilies are toxic, especially to pets. All parts of the Lilium genus, including Altari Lilies, are highly toxic to cats. Ingestion of even a small amount of plant material, pollen, or water from a lily vase can lead to severe kidney failure and be fatal for felines. Cat owners should exercise extreme caution or avoid planting these lilies if pets have garden access. For humans, direct contact with sap can cause mild skin irritation.