About
Lilium nepalense, the lily of Nepal, is a stem-rooting lily with rhizomatous bulbs, arching stems and scattered, intense-green leaves. The funnel-shaped flowers produced in early to midsummer are greenish-yellow to cream in bud, opening to reveal a striking dark maroon centre � a dramatic and rewarding lily for a sheltered, well-drained border.
About the genus
Lilium are bulbous perennials producing erect, often tall stems bearing whorled or scattered leaves and terminal racemes or umbels of bowl-shaped, trumpet-shaped, funnel-shaped or turk's cap flowers, often fragrant, in white, yellow, orange or red tones. Hardy and ornamental bulbs for borders and woodland gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native toHimalaya to Thailand
ToxicityOrnamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. TOXIC to pets if eaten (cats) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in containers of ericaceous compost in a frost-free greenhouse, moving to a sheltered, semi-shaded position outdoors for the summer
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in warmth when ripe, or separate offsets after the foliage dies down
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lily beetle, aphids, slugs, snails, Thrips, leatherjackets, and wireworms, and to damage by rabbits and voles; plants in containers may be susceptible to vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds and a virus; see lily diseases