True lilies, plants that are found in the family Liliaceae, are one of the most recognizable groups of garden flowers. This notoriety has even spilled over to the common names of flowers that are found in other plant families but have a lily-like flower. This summer we celebrate all the lilies, both true and wannabes alike!
By MOLLY HENDRY
Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium ‘Flore Pleno’)
Let’s start with a true lily. This summer stunner gives you twice the spender with its double flowers! This tiger lily is perfect for the back of a planting bed and will rise up above the display with a pop of orange in mid-summer.
Daylily (Hemerocallis spp.)
Although no longer considered a true lily, daylilies remain a staple of every southern garden! Found in every shade of yellow, orange, pink, and red, their fleeting flowers light up the June garden.
Canna Lily (Canna ‘Bengal Tiger’)
Cannas make their presence known and provide some tropical flare in the sunny south. With their bold foliage and striking flowers that last the entire growing season, this summer standout will provide color and height in your garden.
Water Lily (Nymphaea spp.)
Prized for their floating flowers, these aquatic plants are not only graceful additions to a pond but can also help your water feature stay healthy. Its floating leaves shade the water preventing algae while also providing shelter for fish!
Pineapple Lily (Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’)
Although native to South Africa, this perennial is very at home in Alabama! Its deep purple, strap leaves contrast handsomely with the blush to white starry blooms that last for up to 2 months in late summer.
Calla Lily (Zantedeschia spp.)
In many parts of the country, calla lilies are considered indoor plants or must be dug up and stored for the winter. But here in the south, we can depend on calla lilies and their rainbow of colors to return in our gardens season after season!