General Culture: Click for monthly care information.
Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. For best results, plant bulbs 4-6” deep in rich, organic soil in fall or early spring. Plant in groups of at least three for best display and space 12-18” apart. Bulbs prefer good moisture year-round. Mulch around plants to keep root zone cool. Protect from wind. Although stems are strong, staking for taller plants is advisable. Remove flowers as they fade to prevent seed from setting. After bloom, cut back plants only after leaves and stems turn yellow.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
‘Miss Lucy’ is reportedly the first double-flowered oriental lily (Division VII) to be introduced into commerce. Sweetly fragrant, white double flowers (sometimes with a pink blush) bloom abundantly from mid to late summer. Each flower (to 6-7” wide) has 18 ruffled white petals, but no stamens or pollen. Plants typically grow to 3-4’ tall on rigid stems clad with lanceolate medium to dark green leaves.
Problems:
No serious insect of disease problems. Some susceptibility to: (1) lily mosaic virus (prompt control of aphids which vector the disease is highly recommended since there is no cure once infection occurs), (2) bulb rot (particularly in wet, poorly drained soils), and (3) botrytis.
Uses:
Excellent showy lily for the summer border or cottage garden. Group in a sunny location near a patio or deck where the fragrance can be enjoyed on a hot summer evening.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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