About
Lilium rubellum, the maiden lily, is a bulbous perennial to 80 cm with narrowly oval leaves. Up to nine scented, broadly funnel-shaped, pale-pink flowers gently flaring at the mouth are borne on upright stems in early summer � a graceful and rewarding lily for a sheltered, well-drained, partly shaded 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
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden
Native toJapan
FragranceFlower
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 well-drained soil enriched with leaf mould or well-rotted organic matter
PruningDeadhead after flowering and allow foliage to die down naturally
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown, when ripe, in containers in a cold frame or separate offsets after the foliage dies down
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lily beetle, aphids and slugs; plants in pots may be susceptible to vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds and a virus. See lily diseases for further information