Lily 'African Lady'

‘African Lady’ lily (Lilium) unfurls warm-toned flowers with lighter borders. Its vertical presence helps provide a background for a summer bed. Place it with shorter plants that will allow the corollas to be visible, then repeat one of its shades elsewhere in the composition to create a link between plantings. A backdrop of green foliage also helps to appreciate the shape of the flowers without adding additional contrast around the stems. The packet contains 1 bulb; the indicated height is approximately 120 cm (47 in.).

Install this lily in sun or partial shade, in loose, well-drained soil. Plant the bulb with its base facing down and its tip facing up, respecting the depth appropriate for the packaging. Prepare a large enough area for the roots to find loosened soil around them. If the site is exposed to wind, plan for support before the stems grow tall, so as not to damage the bulb later. After planting, water to bring the soil into contact with the roots, then adjust watering based on the actual soil moisture.

After flowering, remove spent flowers but keep the leaves green. They allow the bulb to replenish its reserves before the plant rests. Wait for the foliage to naturally yellow before cutting the dry stems. In a container, pay particular attention to drying out and prevent water from remaining in the saucer. For your bouquets, keep enough foliage on the plant in the garden and use a stable vase. Lilies are ornamental plants that are inedible and very toxic to cats: keep bulbs, plants, cut flowers, and vase water out of their reach.