Easter lily, Lily

(Lilium longiflorum)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Three to four trumpet shaped flowers (4" to 6" across) on top of a 18" - 30" leafy stem.

COLORS:

White

AVAILABILITY:

Year Round

FRAGRANT?

Yes

USES IN ARRANGEMENT:

Focal point

SELECTION GUIDE:

Look for flower buds that are almost opened and showing good color. Opened flowers should have no dried edges. Foliage color should be dark green with no yellowing.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Ethylene sensitive. Store away from fruits and vegetables. Use as soon as possible after flowers open. Pull off anthers to prevent staining.

RECOMMENDED FOR HOME CULTURE?

Yes

HOME CULTURE NOTES:

Grown outdoors and also inside as a flowering plant.

PROPOGATION:

Bulbs

CARE:

Before arranging, recut stems, remove foliage that will be under water & put in mix of warm water & floral preservative for a few hours or overnight. Place arrangement away from direct sunlight, heat vents, air conditioners and drafts. Water and remove dying blooms and foliage daily. To prolong vase life, every 4 - 5 days, recut stems & clean container thoroughly. Rearrange remaining flowers, adding mixture of warm water & floral preservative to your "new" arrangement. Floral preservative is recommended and is available commercially.

NOTES:

Used often in massive traditional or colonial arrangements. Peak months of production are March and April.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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