Lilies are herbaceous flowering plants that are normally grown from bulbs. There are about 110 species of flowers in the lily family. While many other beautiful flowers have adopted the name ‘lily’, only lilies that are part of the genus, Lilium, are true lilies. Identifying characteristics of true lilies are found on their bulb which is composed of fleshy scales without a protective outer coating. A true lily is never dormant and therefore must be considered and treated as a living perennial plant. While lilies come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes, all lilies have six tepals and six anthers. They have exquisite, beautiful petals and are commonly used as a decorative flower.

Common Name: Lily

Pronunciation: lil-ee

Genus: Lilium

Family: Liliaceae

Origin: Native to the northern temperate regions

Availability: Summer

Color Options: Lilies come in many colors including various shades of pink, white, yellow, and cream.

Grows in: Much of Europe, in the north of the Mediterranean, across most of Asia from Japan, south to the Nilgiri mountains in India and even further south to the Philippines. Lilies are also cultivated in Southern Canada and across the United States.

Care Tips: Lilies are thirsty flowers. It is important to make sure that the vase containing lilies is constantly filled with fresh water. As lilies open, remove their pollen stamens to increase their life-span and prevent any staining from the pollen.

Life Span: Lilies purchased while the bulbs are still closed bulbs will open within 3-4 days. Once fully opened, lilies have a long vase life.

Uses: Perfect for elegant bouquets and lovely centerpieces at any festivity.

Lilies will not only add beauty to your wedding with their large petals and lovely colors, but will perfume the air with their aromatic fragrance.

Mixes well with: Roses, calla lilies and snap dragons

Interesting facts: Lilies produce large quantities of pollen. To remove pollen from clothes lightly brush off the pollen with a toothbrush; this will prevent staining.