How to identify Pine lily (Lilium catesbaei)

How to identify Pine lily (Lilium catesbaei)

Pine lily displays striking orange blooms atop stems reaching 2-3 feet (60-91 cm) high, unfurling in the late summer. Its flowers are a key identification feature, complemented by linear leaves emerging from a bulbous base. The foliage sprouts directly from the bulb, which is adapted to remain dormant under adverse conditions for extended periods. This species flourishes particularly well in post-fire landscapes, utilizing the reduced competition to its advantage.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Pine lily

Large orange blooms atop 2-3 ft (60-91 cm) stems in late summer.

Linear leaves emerging from bulb base, parallel venation pattern.

Distinctive elliptical seed capsule with papery texture for wind dispersal.

Slender, unbranched stem up to 3 ft (91 cm) with smooth texture.

Orange flowers with reflexed petals, yellow-orange gradient, and purple specks.

Detailed Traits of Pine lily

Leaf Features

The leaves of pine lily are arranged in a dense rosette at the base, typically emerging from the bulb. They are linear and pointed, measuring approximately 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length. The leaves exhibit a smooth texture and possess a vibrant green color. Each leaf is slender and elongated, tapering to a fine point. The venation pattern is parallel, which is typical for monocotyledons, giving the leaves a sleek and uniform appearance.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Pine lily flowers are distinctive with their large, orange blossoms, featuring six reflexed petals. Each petal showcases a gradient from yellow at the base to orange, adorned with purple specks. The flowers typically bloom from July to September, standing atop stems that reach 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) in height. Prominent in their structure are the long stamens, which bear vibrant yellow anthers, adding to the flower's striking appearance.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of pine lily is slender and green, typically reaching up to 3 feet (91 cm) in height. It is smooth in texture with a uniform cylindrical shape. The stem is moderately thick, usually around 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in diameter, and supports the plant with minimal branching. Notably, the stem remains primarily unbranched, creating a clean vertical appearance. This sleek and unadorned structure is a defining characteristic critical for identifying pine lily.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The mature fruit of pine lily is an elliptical seed capsule, which typically becomes prominent from September to November. Within this capsule are numerous papery seeds ready for dispersal. As the capsule ages and dries, it splits open, allowing these lightweight seeds to be carried away effectively by the wind. The capsule's texture is papery, offering little resistance to the seeds as they exit. Its color transitions as the season progresses, which alongside the dispersal method, is a definitive trait for identification.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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