Lilium
Garden Lily
True lilies (Lilium) — Asiatic, Oriental, and trumpet types — are staples of summer borders and cut-flower searches across the US and Europe.
View GalleryCare Overview
Light
Full–part sun
Orientals like a bit of afternoon shade in hot zones.
Water
Even moisture
Never waterlog bulbs; mulch keeps roots cool.
Temperature
Cool roots
Hardy in many temperate US/EU zones.
Humidity
Average
Good spacing reduces botrytis on leaves.
Soil
Well-drained
Rich loam with grit; avoid heavy winter wet.
Pet Safe
Highly toxic to cats
All true lilies can be fatal to cats — keep indoors plants away.
Detailed Care Instructions
Planting
Plant bulbs 2–3× their height deep in fall or early spring. Orientals prefer slightly acidic soil.
Staking
Tall Orientals and trumpets may need discreet stakes before buds weigh stems down.
After bloom
Deadhead pods but leave stems until yellow so bulbs recharge.
Pet safety
Never bring Lilium indoors if you have cats. Even pollen can be dangerous.
