Hemerocallis middendorffii - Daylily

Hemerocallis middendorffii is a natural species with yellow-orange star-shaped flowers. It blooms in spring and autumn. It is a robust perennial plant that is both simple and unusual, which will thrive in moist soil, in slightly wild gardens. An interesting plant for many gardens, as it has the advantage of growing well in partial shade, making it valuable for improving a cool understory.

Hemerocallis middendorffii is a botanical daylily native to Northern China, Korea, and Japan. It forms a clump measuring 60cm (24in) tall when in bloom, with arching, stiff, linear leaves, 20 to 30cm (8 to 12in) long. In May, reddish-brown slender stalks appear, bearing wrinkled flower buds that open into golden yellow to pale orange star-shaped flowers, 6 to 8cm (2 to 3in) in diameter. It spreads at least 60cm (24in), and in ideal conditions, can cover a significant area by naturalising. It blooms from May until the end of June, and often reblooms in September. The foliage becomes dormant.

This variety enjoys both shady and sunny areas, although it does not tolerate excessively dry soil in summer. Some moisture is beneficial for it. It is not prone to diseases. It does not have the exuberance of beautiful hybrids, but it is still a satisfying plant for the garden. It is perfect for a slightly wild and rustic atmosphere. Almost indestructible once established, you will need to make room for it. You can divide the clumps at any time and share its divisions among gardeners. This daylily will look stunning planted on the edge of a water feature alongside ferns and Siberian Irises, for example. The flowers are edible: in cooking, in salads, or to accompany ice cream, they delight gourmets. A simple plant to rediscover.