Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are highly favored perennials, known for their vibrant blooms and adaptability. These resilient plants offer a long blooming period and come in a vast array of colors, forms, and sizes. While the concept of a “black” daylily captures significant interest, understanding their unique color characteristics is key to appreciating these intriguing garden additions.
Defining “Black” Daylilies
A truly black daylily does not exist in nature, as the gene for pure black color is not present in the Hemerocallis genus. Instead, what gardeners refer to as “black” daylilies are varieties exhibiting extremely deep, saturated shades of red, purple, or maroon. These intense pigments, primarily anthocyanins, create the illusion of black, especially under certain lighting conditions. The velvety texture often found on the petals of these dark cultivars further enhances their near-black appearance, absorbing light rather than reflecting it. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the flower’s deep pigmentation, contributes to their dusky designation.
Growing Dark Daylilies
Dark-colored daylilies thrive with similar care to other varieties, preferring well-drained soil and adequate sunlight for optimal bloom production. They perform best with at least six hours of direct sun daily. In hotter climates, dark cultivars benefit from some afternoon shade to protect their rich colors from fading, as intense sun can bleach the deep pigments.
Well-draining, fertile loam is the preferred soil type, though daylilies are adaptable to various soil conditions, including sandy or clay soils. Incorporating organic matter such as compost can significantly improve soil structure and fertility. Consistent moisture is important for robust growth and abundant flowering, especially during dry spells and the blooming period. While daylilies are drought-tolerant once established, regular watering, about an inch per week, helps them reach their full potential. Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced or slow-release formula, avoiding high-nitrogen fertilizers that can promote foliage over flowers. Daylilies are remarkably hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 3 to 9.
Notable Dark Daylily Varieties
Numerous captivating dark daylily cultivars offer a dramatic presence in the garden:
‘Bela Lugosi’ is a popular choice, featuring deep purple, almost black, blooms with a contrasting lime-green throat. This award-winning variety is also known for its sunfast qualities, resisting fading in bright light.
‘American Revolution’ presents large, deep red flowers that appear nearly black, often showcasing a bright green throat.
‘Jungle Beauty’ is another highly favored dark variety, producing abundant, very dark purple blooms with a distinct yellow throat.
‘Black Magic’ is a late midseason daylily with large, ruby-mahogany trumpets and a lemon-yellow throat, contributing a rich, deep color to the landscape.
‘Derrick Cane’ is recognized as one of the darkest daylilies, maintaining its nearly black color with some afternoon shade.
‘Midnight Rambler’ and ‘Dark Star’ are additional examples, with ‘Dark Star’ specifically noted for its deep violet blooms featuring prominent yellow midribs and a wide yellow throat.
Caring for Dark Daylily Blooms
Maintaining the aesthetic appeal of dark daylily blooms involves specific care practices. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, is important for encouraging rebloom and maintaining a tidy appearance. Removing the entire flower stem, or scape, after all buds have opened prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production.
Dividing overcrowded clumps every few years helps maintain plant vigor and bloom quality. This practice, typically done in spring or fall, provides more space and nutrients for individual plants. While daylilies are generally pest-resistant, issues like aphids, spider mites, or thrips can occasionally affect blooms, making early detection and appropriate management important. Yellowing or damaged foliage should be removed throughout the growing season to promote plant health and appearance.