Lilium lancifolium Splendens

Lilium lancefolium 'Splendens or Tiger Lily has pendulous orange flowers with purple markings at the base of the petals. It blooms generously from June to August and diffuses a very pleasant fragrance. This botanical species is easy to grow and one of the most common and oldest in cultivation. It makes an excellent cut flower, which can last for 14 to 16 days.

Tiger Lily is a perennial bulbous and deciduous plant belonging to the Liliaceae family. It is native to China and Japan. The plant can reach a height of 130 cm (51in), with a spread of 50 cm (20in) and flowers from June to August with clusters of ten to twenty flowers, measuring 3 to 8 cm (1 to 3in) in diameter. The stems are black, and many dark purple bulblets form in the axils of the leaves. It has green, simple, and alternate leaves. They are lanceolate and sessile with an entire margin. This plant can naturalise if the conditions are suitable.

Lilium lancefolium 'Splendens' prefers a rich, loose, slightly alkaline, moist and well-drained soil. This vigorous lily thrives even in poor soil. Plant it in full sun or light shade, as it tolerates both very well. Avoid exposing it to too much shade, as it can become too tall. Also, avoid windy spots. It is best to plant the bulbs in spring or October, 15 cm (6in) deep in a pocket of soil mixed with leaf compost. Surround them with a layer of sand to prevent rot and slug attacks while allowing them to grow more easily. Mark the planting location, as the vegetation only starts in April. Stake when the stems reach 30 cm (12in) high. If red lily beetles appear, treat them immediately as their larvae can devour all the leaves. The most effective method is to catch them manually but be careful as they drop as soon as touched.
After flowering, it is a good idea to cut the faded flowers halfway to keep the bed beautiful during summer and prevent the plants' energy from being wasted on seed production. Cut the plants to the ground once the leaves and stems have turned yellow.

You can grow these lilies with non-invasive perennial plants (dahlias, lupins, gauras, delphiniums) as they like having their feet in the shade, and the perennials will help prevent the stems from leaning in the wind. The lily is ideal for borders but also performs well in pots and, of course, in bouquets.

Bulbs and flower buds are consumed in Japan and China.