Tiger lilies (Lilium lancifolium) are striking garden plants, popular for their vibrant blooms and robust nature. Originating in Asia, these lilies bring a unique visual appeal to any landscape with their characteristic spotted petals. This article explores their common features, popular varieties, and cultivation advice.
General Characteristics of Tiger Lilies
Tiger lilies are recognized by their showy, often unscented flowers, typically measuring about 5 inches across. Each bloom features gracefully recurved petals, giving them a distinct, turban-like appearance. Their petals are adorned with prominent dark brown or black spots, resembling tiger markings, which gives the plant its common name. Long, prominent stamens extend from the center of each flower.
These herbaceous perennials typically grow on tall, upright stems, reaching heights of 2 to 5 feet. They are known for their hardiness, thriving across a wide range of climates, generally suitable for USDA zones 3 through 9. Tiger lilies prefer locations that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. They bloom reliably in mid to late summer.
Popular Tiger Lily Varieties
Several tiger lily varieties offer diverse appeal. One widely recognized variety is ‘Splendens’, which showcases classic fiery orange blooms with crimson freckles. These large flowers, often 5 inches across, are known for their fewer speckles compared to the species and can produce up to 20 to 25 blossoms on a single stem. ‘Splendens’ typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Another remarkable variety is ‘Flore Pleno’, commonly known as the Double Tiger Lily. This cultivar is distinguished by its abundant double flowers, which can feature between 24 to 36 tepals, all richly covered in purple-black spots. ‘Flore Pleno’ can reach an impressive height of 4 to 6 feet. While classic tiger lilies are orange, other color variations exist, including ‘Yellow Star’ which offers a more yellow hue, and ‘Pink Tiger’ which provides soft pink tones, expanding the palette for gardeners.
Growing and Caring for Tiger Lilies
Plant tiger lilies in a suitable location. Bulbs should be planted in well-draining, organic-rich soil to prevent bulb rot. While they can tolerate a range of soil types, including acidic to alkaline, a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.5 is often preferred. Plant bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep, or roughly two to three times the bulb’s height, with the pointed end facing upwards.
Space the bulbs approximately 8 to 15 inches apart for proper air circulation and future growth. Consistent moisture is important during the active growing season, especially in dry periods, though overwatering should be avoided. Watering at the base of the plant helps prevent fungal issues on the foliage. While tiger lilies are not heavy feeders, an annual application of compost in spring can provide nutrients, or a balanced fertilizer (5-10-5) can support blooming.
Tiger lilies are resistant to many pests and diseases. However, occasional issues such as aphids or red lily leaf beetles can occur, which can be managed with targeted treatments like insecticidal soap. Removing spent flowers, a practice known as deadheading, helps redirect the plant’s energy towards bulb development rather than seed production, supporting healthier blooms in subsequent seasons. Allow the foliage to naturally yellow and die back in the fall before trimming the stems to the ground, as the leaves continue to store energy in the bulb.