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Common Name: lily
Type: Bulb
Family: Liliaceae
Zone: 4 to 8
Height: 2 to 4 feet
Spread: 0.5 to 0.75 feet
Bloom Time: June
Bloom Description: Pink
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Culture
Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers rich, organic soils. Best with upper plant in full sun and roots in shade. Mulch around plants to keep root zone cool. Plant bulbs 4-6" deep in fall or very early spring (some nurseries only ship bulbs in fall, however). Potted plants may be planted any time from spring to fall. Plant in groups of three for best display and space 12" apart. Bulbs need good moisture year-round. Do not allow soil to dry out. Remove flowers as they fade to prevent seed from setting. After bloom, cut plants back only after leaves and stems turn yellow.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Asiatic hybrid lilies are known for their large, often non-fragrant flowers (4-6" wide), wide range of colors and early summer bloom (Asiatic lilies are among the first of the lilies to bloom). 'Embarrassment' features downward-facing pink flowers. Blooms early summer on rigid stems rising 3-4' tall. Excellent fresh cut flower.
Problems
For the average gardener, Asiatic hybrid lilies are perhaps the easiest lilies to grow. Usually pest free, but potential diseases include: (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. Plants may need staking if grown in too much shade (stems weaken) or in locations exposed to strong winds.
Garden Uses
An excellent, showy flower that provides color and contrast to the summer perennial border. Also may be grown in pots or containers, but plants and flowers will be somewhat smaller.