Lilium speciosum
Japanese lily is a late‑blooming, strongly fragrant species with recurved, heavily spotted flowers in white to deep pink. It prefers acidic, well‑drained soil and suits full sun to part shade. Plants flower late in summer and provide richly scented cut stems. Avoid soggy sites to prevent bulb rot.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; Oriental group
- Height × spread: 36–60 in (0.9–1.5 m) × 8–12 in (20–30 cm)
- Bloom window: August to September
- Color & flower form: White to pink, heavily spotted; recurved petals
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: zones 5 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, native to Japan, Taiwan, and southeast China
- Cut‑flower notes: Harvest when first buds show color; typical lily vase life 9 to 14 days with preservative
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Later blooming than many lilies
- Requires acidic soil more than trumpet or Asiatic types
- Heavily spotted, recurved petals with a classic Oriental look
Strengths
- Strong fragrance and showy late display
- Reliable where soil is acidic and drains well
- Good late‑summer cut flower
Care in one minute
- Full sun to part shade
- Acidic to neutral, well‑drained, fertile soil
- Even moisture during growth; avoid waterlogging
- Deadhead; allow stems to ripen; mulch lightly in cold zones
Watch‑outs
- Weak growth and chlorosis on alkaline soils
- Botrytis leaf blight in wet weather
Best uses (tags)
cutting, borders, evening scent, late season
Provenance note
Native to southern Japan, Taiwan, and southeast China; widely used in Oriental breeding.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Lilium speciosum
- RHS – Lilium speciosum var. rubrum
- Kew Science – Plants of the World Online – Lilium speciosum
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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