The Asiatic Lily

 Asiatic lilies are ancient. Drawings of this stunning flower have been found on ancient pyramids in Egypt. They have been the subject of thousands of Chinese paintings. They've served as a symbol of power for Louis XIV and other rulers for centuries.

One major reason the species have been able to last so long is that they're extremely hardy plants. They thrive in USDA Zones as diverse as 3-10 and can even survive in some Zone 2 areas. Cold climates place a heavy burden on a flowering plant. To survive those winters where the ground freezes hard then thaws rapidly in spring - causing frost heave that tends to move the bulbs - is evidence of a very adaptable nature.

The bulbs are typically about 5-6" in circumference, and up to a couple of inches high. That relatively large size allows them not only to use the outer layers to protect against cold, but permits storing up large amounts of sugar. That large quantity of sugar makes it easier to overwinter. It powers the growth of the plant in spring, even in somewhat poor soil with modest amounts of moisture and nutrients.

That ability to grow with little help from the outside makes them a gardener's dream. In rich soil they require little to no fertilizing. They need watering only occasionally, and then not very much.

The soil shouldn't dry out entirely, but if it's kept moist, that's enough. The only thing they absolutely require is sunshine - and they like a lots of it, up to six hours per day of full sun. Some Asiatic species will do moderately well in partial sun, but only a very few thrive in continual shade.

The bulbs should be planted to a depth about 3 times the bulb height and covered with 3-4 inches of soft soil. Larger bulbs can be planted a little deeper, small ones closer to the surface.

In both cases, though, water control is important. Lilies of all types prefer well-draining soil and are subject to root rot and other diseases if the surrounding earth is too wet. One easy way to prevent this is to pick a good location. Another is to plant the bulb on a small mound of earth inside the hole. Then drape the roots (if they've begun) in different directions around the little hill on which they sit. As an alternative, they can be planted above ground level, then covered by a few inches of earth, ensuring draining.

If any fertilizer is required, it should be applied in spring about the time the stalks have sprouted or slightly before. Once the plant has become established the bulbs will continue to grow until, after about 3-5 years, dividing them will help optimize the lily plant's growth.

The Asiatics will produce a profusion of 3-12 blooms of just about any color you might like usually in late May or early June. Connecticut King will give lovely yellow blooms, LaToya a dark pink. Luxors offer a delicate cream with an orangish center and Sorbet produce white petals with reddish tips.

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