HomeLily › Lilium longiflorum

Lily cultivar

Lilium longiflorum

Species; Longiflorum group

V Written by Editorial Team · Updated January 2026

This Easter lily species bears pure white, strongly scented trumpets on upright stems. It flowers outdoors in mid summer under North American conditions, not at Easter unless forced. Grow in full sun to part shade with rich, well‑drained soil and cool, mulched roots. It suits borders and large containers and makes dependable cut stems.

Lilium longiflorum
in bloom
now
through Aug
Bloom calendar

Lilium longiflorum

Species; Longiflorum group

At‑a‑glance

  • Group/Class: Species; Longiflorum group
  • Height × spread: 24–36 in (60–90 cm) × 9–12 in (23–30 cm)
  • Bloom window: July to August
  • Color & flower form: Pure white outward‑facing trumpets
  • Fragrance: 3 strong
  • USDA hardiness: zones 4 to 8
  • Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, native to Japan and Taiwan
  • Cut‑flower notes: Stems are fairly stiff; typical lily vase life 9 to 14 days with preservative; remove anthers
  • Pet safety: avoid

How it differs

  • Pure white trumpets instead of spotted or reflexed forms
  • Blooms earlier than most Oriental species
  • Moderate height with a narrow footprint

Strengths

  • Highly fragrant, showy flowers
  • Performs in sun to light shade with cool roots
  • Good container and border subject

Care in one minute

Full sun to part shade; mulch to keep roots cool

Rich, well‑drained soil; slightly acidic to neutral

Even moisture during growth; avoid drought or waterlogging

Deadhead and leave stems to yellow; stake in wind

Watch‑outs

  • Bulb rot in poorly drained soils
  • Botrytis leaf blight in prolonged wet, cool weather

Best uses (tags)

  • cutting
  • borders
  • containers
  • evening scent

Provenance note

Native to southern Japan and Taiwan; widely forced for Easter bloom.

References

Similar Flowers

Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us