Lily 'Blackship'

‘Blackship’ Lily (Lilium) catches the eye with its very dark flowers, whose color creates a striking contrast with green foliage. This deep hue can serve as an anchor point for a bed of lighter flowers. Place it in front of a bright background to better distinguish the corollas, or repeat a dark color nearby to balance the composition. The upright stems provide height and allow the foreground to be reserved for lower-growing plants. The packet contains 1 bulb; the indicated height is approximately 110 cm (43 in.).

Plant this lily in sun or partial shade, in loose soil that drains well. Plant the bulb with its base down and its tip up, at the depth suitable for its packaging. Prepare a planting site wide enough for the roots to find loosened soil around them. If the site is exposed to wind, provide 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 avoid letting water sit 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 not edible and are very toxic to cats: keep bulbs, plants, cut flowers, and vase water out of their reach.