Characteristics of the Tiger Lily
The Tiger Lily, scientifically known as Lilium lancifolium, is a striking and distinctive flower that captures attention with its vibrant colors and unique features. In this article, we will explore the key characteristics of the Tiger Lily, including its petal count, flower appearance, leaves and stem, as well as its origin and distribution.
Petal Count
The Tiger Lily is known for its six tepals, which are actually three petals and three sepals that curve downward. These tepals create a beautiful and distinct flower shape, contributing to the Tiger Lily’s overall appeal. The petal-like tepals of the Tiger Lily are orange-red in color and strongly recurved backward. They are adorned with numerous purplish brown spots, adding to the flower’s striking appearance. The throat of the Tiger Lily’s flower is hairy and features a long style and six long stamens that flare out from the throat.
Flower Appearance
The flowers of the Tiger Lily are approximately 2 inches across, making them a notable presence in any garden or floral arrangement. The petals, or tepals, of the Tiger Lily are known for their vibrant orange-red coloration, which instantly catches the eye. These petals have a strong recurved shape, giving the flower a distinctive appearance. Additionally, the petals are adorned with numerous purplish brown spots, creating an enchanting pattern. The throat of the Tiger Lily’s flower is hairy, and it features a long style and six long stamens that extend outward from the throat.
Leaves and Stem
The leaves of the Tiger Lily are another notable feature of this plant. They are smooth in texture and possess distinct parallel veins. The leaves are narrowly lance-like, measuring between 3 to 7 inches in length and approximately ½ inch in width. The upper leaves of the Tiger Lily have webby edges, while the lower leaves are more oval in shape and clasping. The main stem of the Tiger Lily is unbranched and exhibits a purple to nearly black coloration. It is covered in fine cob-webby white hairs, adding to its unique aesthetic.
Origin and Distribution
The Tiger Lily, Lilium lancifolium, is native to Asia, specifically Guam, China, Korea, and Japan. It has captured the interest of gardeners and flower enthusiasts worldwide due to its captivating beauty and distinct characteristics. The Tiger Lily’s popularity has led to its cultivation in various regions beyond its native range, allowing more people to appreciate its striking presence in gardens and floral displays.
Sources:
- “The Tiger Lily” by Dustin Theurer. Available at: https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/chiwonlee/plsc211/student%20papers/articles02/dtheurer/dtheurer.html
- “Tiger Lily” on Minnesota Wildflowers. Available at: https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/tiger-lily
- “Lilium lancifolium | Tiger Lily” on Chicago Botanic Garden. Available at: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plantcollections/plantfinder/lilium_lancifolium–tiger_lily
FAQs
How many petals does a Tiger Lily have?
The Tiger Lily has six tepals, which are actually three petals and three sepals that curve downward.
What is the appearance of the Tiger Lily’s flowers?
The flowers of the Tiger Lily are approximately 2 inches across and have orange-red petal-like tepals. These tepals are strongly recurved backward and are covered in many purplish brown spots. The throat of the flower is hairy, and it has a long style and six long stamens that flare out from the throat.
How are the leaves and stem of the Tiger Lily described?
The leaves of the Tiger Lily are smooth with distinct parallel veins. They are narrowly lance-like, 3 to 7 inches long, and about ½ inch wide. The upper leaves have webby edges, and the lower leaves are more oval and clasping. The main stem is unbranched, purple to nearly black, and covered in fine cob-webby white hairs.
Where is the Tiger Lily native to?
The Tiger Lily, Lilium lancifolium, is native to Asia, specifically Guam, China, Korea, and Japan.
How can Tiger Lilies be cultivated in gardens?
Growing tiger lilies in the garden is a challenge. Unless you get plants from a specialist nursery, you should raise tiger lilies from seed. Three to five years must pass before the plants are large enough to flower. Collecting bulbs from the wild seems not to be appropriate. In the attempt to get the bulbs, the plant and bulbs are often destroyed. Plus, tiger lily bulbs seem not to like being transplanted.
How should Tiger Lily seeds be sown for cultivation?
To grow Tiger Lilies, sow dry seeds in pots in humus-rich sand soil in late fall or early winter so they undergo a cold season. Seeds should germinate the following spring or maybe not for another year. After a year in the pot, transplant the bulb during the fall dormant season to its final place in the garden. Choose a partly shaded spot with shrub or perennial cover to keep the soil cool and moist, but allowing the lily stalk, leaves, and all to emerge into sunlight. The soil must be very well-drained, sandy, and rich in organic matter such as forest humus or compost.
How long do Tiger Lilies typically flower?
Ounce established, the Tiger Lily plant should flower for many years to come. However, it’s important to note that the bulbs do not like to be disturbed during the growing season.
What are the recommended hardiness zones for Tiger Lilies?
Tiger Lilies are suitable for zones 3-8.