Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are cherished garden perennials. While no daylily is truly black, cultivars referred to as “black daylilies” display exceptionally dark hues of red, purple, or burgundy. These deep, velvety tones create a striking visual impact, adding depth and sophistication to garden designs.
The Nuance of “Black” in Daylilies
The term “black daylily” refers to cultivars with the deepest possible shades of red or purple, as a true black gene does not exist within the Hemerocallis genus. Their intensely dark appearance results from a high concentration of specific pigments, primarily anthocyanins, which absorb most light wavelengths. This creates the illusion of black, often appearing as velvety crimson, deepest burgundy, or darkest purple. Perceived color can shift based on light conditions, with direct sunlight sometimes revealing underlying red or purple tones.
Popular Dark Daylily Cultivars
Many dark daylily cultivars offer a range of deep, rich colors. ‘Jungle Beauty’ is known for very dark purple blooms. ‘Black Ambrosia’ presents a deep purple hue. For those seeking a dark red, ‘Derrick Cane’ is a notable cultivar. ‘Night Wings’ is another excellent option, recognized for its dark petals. ‘Midnight Madness’ stands out with ruffled edges and exceptionally dark coloration.
Cultivating Dark Daylilies
Dark daylilies thrive in full sun, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant blooms. In regions with intense summer heat, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent fading or scorching. Well-drained, fertile soil is crucial, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, improves soil structure and nutrient availability.
When planting, prepare a sufficiently wide hole. The plant’s crown, where the roots meet the foliage, should be positioned about one inch below the soil surface. After placing the plant, gently spread the roots over a cone of soil at the bottom of the hole, then backfill, tamping lightly to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil. Space individual plants at least 18 to 24 inches apart for mature growth and good air circulation.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, dark daylilies are relatively low-maintenance, but consistent care promotes vigor and bloom quality. While not heavy feeders, an annual application of a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, in early spring can encourage robust growth and flowering. Alternatively, incorporating compost around the plant base provides ongoing nutrient release. Established plants typically require about one inch of water per week, especially during dry periods or when actively blooming.
Deadheading, the removal of spent blooms, redirects the plant’s energy into developing more flowers. Gently twist or pinch off wilted blossoms daily, and cut the entire flowering stem to the ground once all buds have opened. Daylilies are generally robust, but occasionally face issues like aphids, spider mites, or slugs. Regular inspection helps catch problems early, and good garden hygiene, like removing leaf litter, deters pests. Division every three to five years helps maintain plant health and bloom production, especially as clumps become overcrowded. This is best done in late summer or early fall, or in early spring. In colder climates, leaving foliage until spring or applying mulch after the first hard frost offers winter protection against freeze-thaw cycles.