Hemerocallis Grape Velvet - Daylily

The Hemerocallis 'Grape Velvet' is a selection with large, spectacular flowers in rich colours. This variety presents an elegant clump of thin, long leaves, initially bristly and then curving in bright medium green at the ends. From June to August, it is adorned with upright stems of velvety purple-violet flowers illuminated by a bright lime-green heart. Daylilies are extremely easy to grow in all types of soil in full sun or partial shade. Versatile, they are perfect for borders as well as in mass plantings or containers!

The genus Hemerocallis belongs to the family of hémérocallidacées, closely related to the liliacées family. They are perennial and hardy plants with deciduous or semi-evergreen foliage. 'Grape Velvet', obtained in 1978 by Wild, will reach 60 cm (24in) in all directions. The flowers are large, with a diameter of 12 cm (5in), and star-shaped. Individually, they last only for a day but repeat flower between June and August. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots. The stems are sturdy and produce beautiful bouquets. The foliage is linear and semi-evergreen. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots that tolerate dry soils but are lusher and more floriferous in cool, rich, deep soils well-exposed to the sun.

These plants are easy to grow and thrive in shade and sun. Some can be invasive, so don't hesitate to divide clumps every four or five years, preferably in autumn, after flowering. Daylilies are often called "the perfect perennial plant" due to their vibrant colours, ability to tolerate any type of environment, and their exuberant beauty that complements other perennials. Plant them in generous clumps at the back of your borders. All summer bulb flowers can be planted alongside daylilies. 'Grape Velvet' will perfectly integrate into the design of a romantic garden, with campanulas, penstemons, perennial flaxes, or phloxes by its side. Plant this variety with chartreuse or light green plants like the common lady's mantle or against a backdrop of golden hops. Use large pots of at least 30 cm (12in) deep on a balcony or terrace and choose from dwarf varieties. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and decorate desserts.

Many varieties have been developed in Japan, where they are very popular. The flowers of these plants come in a wide range of colours and forms. More than 60,000 cultivars, mostly resulting from hybridisation by gardening enthusiasts, are listed, appreciated, and studied by international Hemerocallis societies.