Asiatic and Oriental Lilies may appear similar at first glance, but they actually have several noteworthy differences. These beautiful flowers are highly sought after by home gardeners due to their vibrant colors and striking appearance. Each type of lily has its own unique characteristics, making it important to understand their individual growing needs. In this article, we will explore the disparities between Asiatic and Oriental Lilies, shedding light on which one might be the best choice for your gardening endeavors.
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How are Asiatic and Oriental Lilies Different?
While differentiating between daylilies and lilum varieties is relatively easy, distinguishing between Oriental and Asiatic Lilies can be a bit more challenging. At first glance, one might assume that these two plants belong to the same species, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, the two plants have several distinct features that set them apart.
Asiatic Lilies (Lilium Asiatic)
As the name suggests, Asiatic Lilies are native to various regions of Asia. These lilies are characterized by their long glossy leaves and relatively shorter height, typically reaching around 2-3 feet. The flowers of Asiatic Lilies come in a wide array of colors, ranging from deep red to pure white. Their blooms are usually 6 to 8 inches wide and may have spots of color on them.
One notable aspect of Asiatic Lilies is that they lack fragrance. However, they make up for it with their quick multiplication, resulting in larger plants each season. Asiatic Lilies typically bloom early in the spring, preceding the Oriental Lilies. If you’re looking for an early burst of color, Asiatic Lilies are a great choice.
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When Asiatic Lilies start growing in the spring, they develop long stalks with multiple narrow leaves along the stem. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter such as compost. This versatile plant can tolerate most soil conditions and prefers a full sun location. Deadheading the flowers as they fade and dividing the plant every 3 to 4 years will keep them healthy and flourishing. Unlike some other lily varieties, Asiatic Lilies seldom require staking.
Oriental Lilies (Lilium Oriental)
Originating from Japan, Oriental Lilies can grow up to 3-6 feet in height, making them taller than Asiatic Lilies. Some people even refer to them as “tree lilies,” although this term actually denotes a cross between Asiatic and Oriental lilies. Oriental Lilies produce blooms with a diameter ranging from 4 to 12 inches. These outward-facing flowers open wide with a flat surface, displaying beautifully curled petals.
Unlike their Asiatic counterparts, Oriental Lilies bloom later in the season, usually in mid to late summer. Their blooms come in various shades of white, pink, and yellow, emitting a delightful and heavy fragrance. While the bulbs do multiply, the rate is significantly slower compared to Asiatic Lilies.
When Oriental Lilies first emerge, they exhibit wider leaf growth compared to Asiatic Lilies. They are well-suited for perennial gardens and can also thrive in containers.
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Similar to Asiatic Lilies, Oriental Lilies prefer well-drained soil. However, they require acidic conditions to thrive. A helpful tip is to add used coffee grounds around the plants to create the ideal environment. Due to their tall stems, staking may be necessary to keep them upright.
Both Asiatic and Oriental Lilies have varying levels of cold hardiness, with a range between zones 3 and 10, depending on the specific variety. To determine the cold hardiness of your lilies, refer to the information provided on the package or plant tag.
Wrap-Up
It’s important to consider your garden’s specific conditions and your personal preferences when choosing between Asiatic and Oriental Lilies. Both types offer stunning displays of flowers, enhancing the beauty of any landscape. If you find yourself unable to decide, why not try growing both? By planting a combination of Asiatic and Oriental Lilies, along with some daylilies, you can enjoy a prolonged show of exquisite blooms throughout the year.
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We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the differences between Asiatic and Oriental Lilies. Happy gardening!
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Category: Lily
