Turk's-Cap Lily (Lilium superbum)

Turk's-Cap Lily

Also known as: Swamp Lily, American Tiger Lily

Eye-catching tangerine-colored blooms perch on top of the tall stems of the turk's-Cap Lily (Lilium superbum) in mid-summer. Its bulb and flowers are considered edible. The blooms are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.

Scientific classification

Species

Turk's-Cap Lily (Lilium superbum)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

1.2 m to 2.5 m

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Orange, Red, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Turk's-Cap Lily

Culture

Symbolism

Protection, Breaking love spells. It is used to symbolize Danger, Caution and deadly beauty. Yellow: I'm walking on air. Gaiety white: Sweetness, Purity tiger: Wealth, pride Orange: Wealth Calla: Beauty day

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Quickly Identify Turk's-Cap Lily

Tall perennial, 4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters), with orange-red flowers and purple spots.

Distinctive 'Turk's-cap' flowers with backward-curving perianth parts touching at tips.

Elliptic leaves, 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) long, whorled arrangement, medium green color.

Smooth, cylindrical stem, up to 8 feet (240 cm) tall, sturdy support for plant.

Erect, cylindrical fruit capsule, 2 inches (5 cm) long, splits to release disc-shaped seeds.

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Care Guide for Turk's-Cap Lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist meadows, turk's-Cap Lily prefers consistent hydration without waterlogging and demonstrates moderate drought tolerance. Weekly watering aligns with natural rainfall, making turk's-Cap Lily suitable for rain gardens due to its bulbous nature that utilizes seasonal water availability.

Fertilize: To care for turk's-Cap Lily, apply balanced fertilizer in early spring and a high-phosphorus formula before flowering. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, reducing dosage to prevent overload. Cease fertilization in late summer to protect against frost, and use slow-release granules for consistent nutrients without direct stem contact.

Pruning: Turk's-Cap Lily features tall stems and vibrant, recurved petals. Prune in early to late spring, removing only dead or damaged stems to promote airflow. Regular deadheading extends blooming and maintaining clean tools prevents infections. Pruning boosts vigor and maintains shape for a healthy display.

Propagation: Turk's-Cap Lily is a perennial from the eastern United States that flourishes in moist, well-drained soils and partial shade. It features vibrant orange flowers and is propagated by division in late fall or early spring, ensuring healthy root growth with adequate moisture.

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