Lilium leichtlinii (Leichtlins Lily)

Native to Japan, Lilium leichtlinii is an Asiatic Lily species that is incredibly graceful with slender stems plentifully clad with long, narrow leaves and abundant, golden yellow flowers, 2 in. wide (6 cm), resembling Tiger Lilies. Downward-facing and strongly reflexed, they are covered with chocolate speckles, giving them the appearance of the skin of a tiger. Lilium leichtlinii is amazingly decorative and quite prolific as mature bulbs can produce up to 20 blossoms per stem. This Lily variety is not fragrant.

Native to Japan, Lilium leichtlinii is an Asiatic Lily species that is incredibly graceful with slender stems plentifully clad with long, narrow leaves and abundant, golden yellow flowers, 2 in. wide (6 cm), resembling Tiger Lilies. Downward-facing and strongly reflexed, they are covered with chocolate speckles, giving them the appearance of the skin of a tiger. Lilium leichtlinii is amazingly decorative and quite prolific as mature bulbs can produce up to 20 blossoms per stem. This Lily variety is not fragrant.

  • Blooming in early-mid summer, Lilium leichtlinii comes back year after year and constitutes an excellent border plant, providing striking color and contrast.
  • Growing up to 3-4 feet tall (90-120 cm), this Lily performs best in full sun or part shade and is not fussy about soils, provided they are rich in humus and well-drained. Good moisture is required and dry soils should be avoided.
  • Plant in spring or fall. Plant in groups of 3 bulbs at a minimum for a striking display! When flowering is over, cut back leaves and stems after they turn yellow.
  • Toxic to cats (though not for dogs or any known species)
  • These Lilies are members of the Species and cultivars of species Division (IX) which includes all species and their subspecies, varieties, and forms, and cultivars selected therefrom (excluding those derived from formosanum, longiflorum, philippinense, and wallichianum). There are 9 different types of lilies classified by the Royal Horticultural Society. And they are all real eye-catchers!

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 9

Heat Zones 1
– 7

Climate Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Bulbs, Perennials
Plant Family Lilium – Lilies
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid)
Height 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 8″ (20cm)
Depth 8"
(20cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Showy
Attracts Bees
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage