in bloom
now
through Aug
Bloom calendar
Lilium auratum
Species; Oriental group
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; Oriental group
- Height × spread: 24–60 in (60–150 cm) × 12–18 in (30–45 cm)
- Bloom window: July to August
- Color & flower form: White with a golden band and red spots; large outward flowers with slightly recurved tips
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: zones 5 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, native to Japan
- Cut‑flower notes: Harvest at first open flower; typical lily vase life 9 to 14 days with preservative
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Very large, late‑season blooms with a distinctive gold band
- Prefers acidic soils more than many trumpet or Asiatic lilies
- Strong fragrance compared with Asiatics
Strengths
- Spectacular, strongly scented flowers
- Extends bloom into late summer
- Useful for large arrangements
Care in one minute
Full sun to light shade; shelter from strong wind
Acidic to neutral, fertile, well‑drained soil with high organic matter
Keep evenly moist; avoid drought and waterlogging
Deadhead; let stems ripen; mulch after soil freezes in cold regions
Watch‑outs
- Chlorosis and weak growth on alkaline soils
- Botrytis leaf blight in humid, wet weather
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Native to Japan; a key parent in Oriental lily breeding.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Lilium auratum
- RHS – Lilium auratum
- Kew Science – Plants of the World Online – Lilium auratum
