Madonna lily - Lilium candidum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Madonna lily

Madonna lily (Lilium candidum) is a plant species that forms bulbs at ground level and has been cultivated by humans for over 3,000 years. Madonna lily is native to the Balkans and Middle East. This species has great symbolic value in many different cultures. For example, it is a symbol of purity in Roman Catholicism. Madonna lily is susceptible to viral and fungal diseases.

Scientific classification

Species

Madonna lily (Lilium candidum)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 1.8 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

6 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Madonna lily

Distribution of Madonna lily

Distribution Map

Madonna lily is natively found in the Eastern Mediterranean region and has a historical presence in Southwestern Asia. Introduced to various temperate and subtropical regions across the globe, it has naturalized beyond its native range on several continents, including Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Additionally, madonna lily is widely cultivated, enhancing its presence beyond natural and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland garden sunny edge

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Madonna lily is one of the lilies that has been in cultivation for hundreds of years – and with a good reason. Besides the reasonably showy visual effect of its white flowers that come in clusters of up to 20, their fragrance is also legendary. It is an excellent plant to freshen up perennial borders and mixes well with other summer flowers. It also works well for containers and can provide attractive cut flowers.

Symbolism

Purity

Interesting Facts

The madonna lily has been depicted in art through the millenia – in the frescoes in the palace of Knossos on Crete, on the columns of King Solomon’s Temple, on the walls of Egyptian pyramids, and in the religious art of the Middle Ages. The ancient Greeks and Romans used the lily, the symbol of love, for bridal wreaths.

Name Story

Madonna lily: The satiny white petals of the madonna lily are well described by the Latin word candidum, meaning “shining.” The lily has long been associated with the Virgin Mary, the Madonna

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Toxicity

Madonna lily possesses severe toxicity, with all parts being dangerous if ingested by humans, cats, and dogs. Symptoms in these species can be serious, necessitating immediate medical or veterinary care. It’s crucial to prevent ingestion and seek prompt treatment if poisoning is suspected to ensure safety and well-being. Vigilance is essential for pet owners to avert accidental ingestion of madonna lily.

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Quickly Identify Madonna lily

Stately white blooms emit a pleasant fragrance

Trumpet-shaped flowers with elegant curved petals

Bulb covered by 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil

Forms clusters of blooms atop sturdy stems

Height reaches up to 3 feet (90 cm)

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Care Guide for Madonna lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Madonna lily originates from temperate regions and flourishes in well-drained soil with moderate moisture. It tolerates drought and requires weekly watering to simulate its natural cycle. For optimal flowering, maintain consistent moisture during its growing season outdoors.

Fertilize: Madonna lily thrives with balanced fertilizers (5-5-5 or 10-10-10) in spring, switching to high phosphorus (5-10-10) pre-bloom. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, reducing for potted madonna lily, and avoid late summer feeding. Water after fertilization to prevent root burn.

Pruning: To maintain optimal health for madonna lily, prune dead or faded flowers in early spring and cut back stems after late spring blooming. Remove yellowed or diseased leaves to prevent infections. Use sterile tools for pruning to promote new growth and enhance flowering while preserving the plant’s elegant display.

Propagation: Madonna lily features striking white blooms and is best propagated by division post-flowering. Separate new bulbs from the parent cluster carefully and plant them three times their height deep in well-draining soil, 8-12 inches apart. Ensure adequate sunlight and consistent moisture while avoiding waterlogging.

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