Formosa lily - Lilium formosanum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Formosa lily

Also known as: Takasago lily

Formosa lily (Lilium formosanum) is endemic to Tawain but has become naturalized in certain parts of the Americas, Africa, and Australia. The plant can grow up to 2 m tall and produces large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers that may be up to 30 cm in length. The flowers develop into attractive seed pods that are sometimes used in dried arrangements.

Scientific classification

Species

Formosa lily (Lilium formosanum)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1.2 m to 2 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

15 cm

Flower Size

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Formosa lily

Distribution of Formosa lily

Distribution Map

Formosa lily, a plant naturally hailing from East Asia's temperate zones, has been introduced and cultivated in various other regions, spanning from East Asia to Southern Africa, Latin America, and Oceania. It thrives across these areas, having adapted to both similar and distinct climates compared to its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Seashores, open grassland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Formosa lily grows relatively tall stems decorated with showy trumpet-shaped flowers. Its height makes the plant suitable for planting in the middle and back positions of flower borders in cottage or informal gardens. Also, it can look lovely as a wallside border, and it is a suitable material for cutting gardens. Formosa lily can also be grown in containers and pots, but in that case, the flowers turn out smaller.

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Toxicity

Formosa lily is highly toxic to humans, dogs, and cats upon ingestion of any part of the plant. Symptoms can include severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress in humans, profound physical distress in cats, and vomiting, diarrhea, or kidney failure in dogs. Immediate veterinary or medical care is crucial for affected individuals.

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Quickly Identify Formosa lily

Trumpet-shaped white flowers, 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) long, in clusters on tall stalks.

Upperward facing seedpods, 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) long, transitioning from green to brown.

Lance-shaped leaves, up to 8 inches (20 cm) long, parallel veins, glossy surface.

Stiff, green cylindrical stem, up to 4 feet (120 cm) tall, minimal branching.

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Care Guide for Formosa lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from mountainous regions, formosa lily thrives in consistent moisture and moderate humidity. It requires weekly watering and benefits from rainwater during the growing season, providing ideal pH and nutrients for optimal health in garden environments.

Fertilize: For formosa lily, use a balanced nutrition fertilizer monthly in spring and summer, rich in phosphorus. Switch to bi-monthly in fall and stop in winter. Water formosa lily before fertilizing, and adjust both quantity and frequency based on growth stages to ensure vigorous growth and vibrant flowers.

Pruning: Formosa lily is a perennial with tall stems and trumpet-shaped flowers. Prune in early to late spring to remove damaged stems, and cut back spent blooms after flowering. Light maintenance enhances growth, air circulation, and reduces pests, promoting healthy blooming.

Propagation: To cultivate formosa lily, surface-sow fresh seeds in a well-draining substrate. Maintain moisture without overwatering and provide bright, indirect light. Once seedlings are strong, transplant them into individual pots before relocating to their permanent garden spot.

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