Martagon lily (Lilium martagon)

Martagon lily

Also known as: Sultan lily, Turk's cap lily

Martagon lily (*Lilium martagon*) is a lily plant native to Europe and Asia, from Portugal to Mongolia. Martagon lily is a commonly cultivated ornamental garden plant, and it is toxic to cats.

Scientific classification

Species

Martagon lily (Lilium martagon)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 2 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, White, Red, Yellow, Green, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Red, Purple

Stem Color

Images of Martagon lily

Distribution of Martagon lily

Distribution Map

The martagon lily has a wide distribution range from Portugal into China, growing in meadows and other disturbed areas. It was introduced to North America.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Deciduous woods, Scrub, Mountain pasture, Limestone

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Martagon lily (Lilium martagon) is beloved for its particularly showy and ornate flowers which bring elegance and grace to the midst of plant borders. Grow this plant in informal or traditional gardens, or city and courtyard gardens. It pairs well with catmint and lady's mantle.

Symbolism

Innocence of the soul, purity, virtue

Interesting Facts

Martagon lily are very popular among floral gardeners. Among gardeners, the martagon lily bulbs have a reputation of being bulbs that "sit and sulk" until fall if they are planted in the spring. They also "sit and sulk" if planted in the winter. Gardeners recommend dusting martagon lily garden soils with lime for optimal planting.

Name Story

Turk's cap lily||Martagon lily: The flower of this plant is very peculiar and when it is not bloomed or budded, the flower seems to be drooping. When it blooms, the petals will turn upwards, like a hat or headscarf. The specific epithet, "martagon" in Turkish means turban or cap, so it is called Turk's cap lily. Sometimes, it is simply called martagon lily.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Martagon lily, including the following common varieties :

Martagon lily 'Album'Martagon lily 'Orange Marmalade'Martagon lily 'Terrace City'Martagon lily 'Pink Morning'Martagon lily 'Manitoba Morning'Martagon lily 'Claude Shride'Martagon lily 'Scarlet Morning'Martagon lily 'Sunny Morning'

Toxicity

Martagon lily is toxic to cats and dogs, particularly the bulb. Ingestion leads to symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and hypersalivation. Immediate veterinary attention is essential for treatment. Pet owners should prevent access to martagon lily to safeguard their animals' health.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Martagon lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Martagon lily prefers moderately moist soil and consistent moisture, reflecting its forest origins. It requires weekly watering, as it does not tolerate drought. In outdoor settings, martagon lily benefits from natural rain during the growing season to meet its moisture needs.

Fertilize: To enhance martagon lily's growth, apply balanced fertilizers (10-10-10) in spring before new growth. Transition to high phosphorus for blooming as buds form, fertilizing every 4-6 weeks. Avoid excess to protect martagon lily, and refrain from fertilizing during dormancy to promote health and vibrant blooms.

Pruning: Martagon lily features pendent, turk's cap-shaped flowers and should be pruned in early to late spring. Remove dead stems and spent blooms to promote growth. Trim yellowed foliage in late fall to nourish bulbs, ensuring the plant's vigor and appearance for the next season.

Propagation: Martagon lily can be propagated in spring using tubers, which have a moderate difficulty level. Successful propagation is marked by new sprouts appearing above the soil. Ensure tubers are planted at the correct depth for optimal growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Martagon lily

Distribution of Martagon lily

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Martagon lily

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases