Daylilies, scientifically known as Hemerocallis, are popular garden perennials widely appreciated for their adaptability and ease of cultivation. Among the many cultivars, ‘Catcher in the Eye’ has gained significant recognition for its distinct visual appeal and reliable performance in garden settings. This particular daylily variety is a sought-after choice for gardeners looking to add vibrant, yet manageable, color to their landscapes. Its robust nature makes it a fitting option for various garden designs, from mixed borders to mass plantings.
Distinctive Features
The ‘Catcher in the Eye’ Daylily showcases striking trumpet-shaped flowers, typically measuring around 5.25 inches in diameter. The blooms feature a captivating color palette, primarily lively lavender-purple petals with a deep purple eye zone and a creamy-yellow to yellow throat, often accented by a picotee edge. This tetraploid variety is noted for its larger flowers with thicker petals and more intense colors compared to diploid daylilies.
These vibrant flowers are presented on tall, sturdy scapes that reach an average height of 30 inches, creating a noticeable vertical element in the garden. Each scape can produce up to 30 individual flowers, providing a continuous display. The plant exhibits a reblooming characteristic, typically producing a flush of blooms from early to mid-summer, followed by sporadic reblooming that can extend into early fall, ensuring a prolonged season of interest. The foliage consists of rich green, grass-like leaves that are generally evergreen, maintaining visual appeal throughout the growing season.
Planting Requirements
For optimal establishment and growth, ‘Catcher in the Eye’ Daylily thrives in locations receiving full sun, which promotes abundant flowering. While full sun is ideal, it can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates where some afternoon shade can prevent bloom fade. The plant demonstrates a broad hardiness range, performing well across USDA Zones 3 through 9, with some sources indicating Zone 4 with protection for Zone 3.
This daylily cultivar prefers well-draining soil, though it is quite adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy compositions. An ideal soil pH range for ‘Catcher in the Eye’ is slightly acidic, generally between 6.2 and 6.8. When planting, position the crown, which is the point where the roots meet the shoots, approximately 1 inch below the soil surface. Adequate spacing is also important, with plants typically placed 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for mature spread and good air circulation.
Ongoing Care
Once established, ‘Catcher in the Eye’ Daylily is considered a low-maintenance perennial, capable of tolerating periods of drought. However, for the best performance and continuous blooming, consistent moisture is beneficial, especially during periods of new foliage development and bud formation. Watering should be moderate, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist without becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root issues.
Fertilization is generally not heavily required if the soil is adequately amended at planting. However, to encourage robust growth and prolific flowering, a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, can be applied in early spring as new growth emerges. Removing spent blooms, a practice known as deadheading, helps redirect the plant’s energy towards producing more flowers and extends the overall bloom season. In colder climates, the foliage will die back in winter and can be cleaned up in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation Methods
The most common and effective method for propagating ‘Catcher in the Eye’ Daylily, ensuring the new plants retain the specific characteristics of the parent, is division. This process is best undertaken either in early spring as new growth begins or in late summer after the plant has finished its main bloom cycle. Dividing daylilies every few years can also rejuvenate older, less vigorous clumps and improve flowering.
To divide, carefully dig up the entire plant clump, then gently pull or cut the clump apart. For dense root masses, a sharp knife may be necessary to separate the sections. Each new division should have at least two to three fans of leaves and a healthy root system to ensure successful establishment. Replant these divisions promptly.
Common Challenges and Solutions
While ‘Catcher in the Eye’ Daylily is generally resilient, it can occasionally encounter certain pests and diseases. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distorted leaves and lead to the development of sooty mold from their sticky honeydew excretions. A strong spray of water can dislodge them, or insecticidal soap can be applied for significant infestations. Thrips are another tiny pest that can cause silver streaks on foliage and prevent flower buds from opening; these can also be managed with water sprays or insecticidal soap.
Slugs and snails may chew ragged holes in leaves, especially on tender new growth, leaving behind characteristic silvery trails. Removing debris from around the plant and using iron phosphate-based baits can help deter them. Spider mites, which thrive in hot, dry conditions, cause yellowish speckling and fine webbing on leaves. Regular watering and insecticidal soap sprays can mitigate their presence.
Regarding diseases, daylily rust appears as orange pustules on leaves. It can be prevented by inspecting new plants, ensuring good air circulation, and cleaning up old foliage in the fall. Crown rot, often a result of overly wet soil conditions, causes yellowing leaves. This can be addressed by ensuring proper drainage and, in severe cases, by removing affected parts and replanting in well-drained soil.