Asiatic Lilies

 These blooms bring bodacious color to your borders.

- Sherri Ribbey

1 | ‘Lollypop’ has sturdy stems that don’t need staking. Each one is topped with three to four buds for a long-lasting show.

Summer borders get a whole new look when you grow the big trumpet-shaped, and often brightly colored, blooms of Asiatic lilies. Sitting on tall upright stems, they're a sure way to grab attention early to midsummer. They bloom earlier than other groups of lilies and multiply faster too. Though each bulb produces just one stem, there are two to four buds on each one (or more depending on the variety), creating a flower show that can last up to a month. Besides being beautiful, Asiatic lilies are cold hardy and grow happily in the same spot for years.

Grow bold-colored Asiatic lilies, such as Forever Susan' or 'Heart Strings, next to the patio to set a tropical and energetic mood that's perfect for entertaining. Or try soft-toned 'Easy Vanilla' to create a relaxing vibe near a seating area. While most varieties have the traditional trumpet-shaped bloom that faces up or out, some varieties have more downward-facing flowers with unique backward curling, or recurved, petals.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE

Most Asiatic lilies reach 3 to 4 feet tall. Grow them midborder to help bridge the gap between taller and smaller perennial companions. 'Lollypop' in photo 1 at right is a bit smaller-2 to 3 feet tall-so it's more at home near the front. Pint-sized 'Orange Pixie' is even smaller, at just 12 to 18 inches tall. It makes a bright addition to the garden's edge or a full-sun container.