Your Essential Guide to Lily Varieties and Divisions
Lilies are the epitome of elegance and flamboyance, boasting large, dazzling flowers and a sweet, strong scent that can enhance any garden. With nearly 100 species and hundreds of hybrids available, selecting the right lily for your garden can be overwhelming. Fear not, as this guide will walk you through the nine divisions of lilies, sharing some of the best cultivars in each division to help you make an informed choice.
The Lily Authority
The Royal Horticultural Society plays a crucial role as the International Cultivar Registration Authority for lilies. Through the Lily Register, species, subspecies, and hybrids are categorized into nine divisions based on various factors such as flower aspect, growth habits, and parentage. While caring for lilies is generally consistent across divisions, each division offers distinct bloom times and characteristics that can impact your garden’s overall aesthetic.
For home gardeners, the Asiatic and Oriental Hybrids in Divisions I and VII are particularly popular. However, don’t overlook the Trumpets in Division VI or the intriguing hybrids in Division VIII. Whether you shop at a garden center, online, or from mail order catalogs, acquiring lily bulbs from different divisions is achievable with a bit of effort.
A Note of Caution
It is essential to note that all parts of the lily, including the pollen, are toxic to cats. If you suspect your feline friend has ingested any part of the plant, seek immediate veterinarian assistance.
Exploring the Nine Lily Divisions
Let’s delve into the nine divisions of lilies, from Asiatic Hybrids to True Species, highlighting some popular cultivars in each category to inspire your gardening endeavors.
Division I: Asiatic Hybrids
Asiatic hybrids are the offspring of 12 Asian species, showcasing non-fragrant blooms in an array of colors and patterns. These easy-to-grow lilies are ideal for containers, borders, and cutting gardens, blooming from late spring to mid-summer. Popular cultivars include ‘Heartstrings,’ ‘Netty’s Pride,’ ‘Night Rider,’ ‘Rosella’s Dream,’ and ‘Starlette.’
Division II: Martagon Hybrids
Martagon lilies, also known as ‘Turk’s Cap’ lilies, are prized for their fragrant, pendant flowers in shades of burgundy, mauve, orange, pink, purple, white, and yellow. ‘Martagon Mix’ offers a vibrant assortment of hues and is perfect for woodland fringes and perennial beds.
Division III: Candidum (Euro-Caucasian) Hybrids
Admired for their graceful blooms, Candidum hybrids like ‘June Fragrance’ and ‘Nankeen’ boast delicate pastel shades and intoxicating fragrances, making them a charming addition to any garden.
Stay tuned for more divisions and cultivars in the next section.
