Tiger lilies (Lilium lancifolium) are instantly identified by their vibrant orange hue and distinctive dark spots. This species brings a striking, exotic look to the mid-to-late summer garden when many other blooms have faded. Their bold appearance and easy-to-grow nature have made them a long-time favorite for gardeners.
Defining the True Tiger Lily
The species Lilium lancifolium is the true Tiger Lily, native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It is characterized by large, downward-facing flowers with petals that curve strongly backward, a form known as a Turk’s cap. The petals are vibrant orange or reddish-orange and covered in prominent dark spots, inspiring the “tiger” name. A unique feature is the presence of small, dark, pea-like reproductive structures called bulbils, which form in the leaf axils and drop to the ground to produce new plants.
A Spectrum of Popular Cultivars
Selective breeding and hybridization have produced several visually distinct Tiger Lily varieties. One common variety is the double-flowered form, Lilium lancifolium ‘Flore Pleno’. This cultivar contains an increased number of tepals, giving it a lush, pom-pom-like appearance, and lacks stamens, making it a non-staining choice for cut arrangements. Other cultivars alter the color, such as Lilium lancifolium var. flaviflorum, which displays pale yellow flowers, or hybrids that offer shades of red, pink, and white while retaining the distinct recurved shape and dark spotting.
Growing and Maintaining Tiger Lilies
Tiger lilies are robust and undemanding once established, thriving across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. They perform best in full sun, receiving at least six hours of direct light daily, but tolerate partial shade. Excellent drainage is the most important soil requirement, as bulbs will rot if they sit in soggy ground; amend heavy soil with compost or coarse sand before planting. Plant bulbs four to six inches deep, and after blooms fade, cut back the spent flower stalks, cutting stems down to the ground in late fall once the foliage has yellowed.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
All parts of the Tiger Lily, including the bulb, leaves, and flowers, are highly toxic to cats. Ingestion, even of a small amount of plant material or pollen, can lead to severe, acute kidney failure in felines. This toxicity is specific to cats and does not generally affect dogs or other common household pets. The species also acts as a symptomless carrier for viruses, such as the lily mosaic virus, which it can transmit to more sensitive lily species planted nearby, so isolation from other valuable lilies is recommended.