Tiger Lilies

Tiger lilies always give us a show in July when it’s so hot and many weaker flowers have bit the dust. These old-time tiger lilies have bloomed in Southern yards for ages completely undaunted by weather, disease and insects.

Lilium lancifoliam x tigrinum, known everywhere as tiger lilies, originated from the Orient eons ago. For 2,000 years it had been a major food source in China. The scales were peeled from the egg-shaped bulb, seasoned and cooked.

Tiger lilies began their journey to Europe and finally America as trading ships brought them back and forth to different ports. They arrived in the U.S. in the 1830s where they were more than happy to grow and multiply. Traded among plant lovers and passed along through time, tiger lilies are perhaps the most loved and well-known lily that we grow. In fact, the lily has naturalized in many places where it is often considered an American wildflower.

Just give tiger lilies deep rich soil that is well-drained. Make sure they have plenty of sunshine and they will grace your garden with their beautiful orange blooms covered in black spots.