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Bulbs/Lilium Auratum

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Expert: Long Island Gardener - 7/9/2006


Question
I was looking this afternoon at some stunning potted plants. I was told they are "Lily Auratum". (They were not gold?) We purchased annuals while we were there but for the autumn I was considering getting some of those. Do you think we can grow this on the south shore? (Nassau - Lawrence).

Answer
I have to tell you I love the "definition" in the Wikipedia about the strongly fragrant Lilium Auratum (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lilium_auratum) where they call this "one of the true lilies, native to Japan".  It goes on to say that the flowers are the largest of any in the lily species.

I purchased a group of the Gold Band Lilium Auratum from Van Engelen nurseries many years ago.  The bulbs today are much more costly.  But the quality is very strong (www.vanengelen.com).  I do not recommend buying a gallon size container of a growing lily.  The container is probably costing $20-25 with the plant in it.  You can do much better at Brent and Beckys Bulbs, Van Engelen, and B&D Lilies.  Let me know when you're ready to plant.  We'll talk some more.

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Long Island Gardener

Expertise

Growing Tulips? Dahlias? Daffodils? Gladiolus? It doesn't get easier than bulbs and tubers. Once in a while, something goes wrong: The dreaded Narcissus Bulb Fly, which resembles a honeybee. Mosaic virus, which can ignite a field of tulips in a single season. Nematodes, lurking underground. Here on the North Shore of Long Island, the garden is full of surprises. If you live in the Northeast/Atlantic Coast, I can help you pick the right bulb for every season, indoors and out, and help you fertilize, bloom and harvest for home or work. How: I have degrees in related fields, but my best understanding is all learned from trial and error. For most of my 53 years I have been gardening somewhere. No matter what the problem, I've learned the best answers are always Organic -- Earth friendly, less expensive, healthier for people and pets, easier and cleaner than toxic liquids and powders that big chemical companies sell so smoothly.

Experience

Besides degrees in related fields, and a few favorite horticultural societies, I work as a docent at our local botanical gardens -- but it's the years of work in the garden that's the real test.

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