Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden

August Plant of the Month

Lilium formosanum -Formosa lily

by Adrienne Roethling,

Director

Formosa lily is a native to Taiwan possessing similarities with its close relative, the well-known Easter lily. However, Formosa lily has a much later bloom time.

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Lilium formosanum emerges from the ground in mid-spring quickly growing to 8 feet tall by the end of July. At maturity, expect the 8 foot stalks to form a massive candelabra-like flower head. In August, each flower reaches 10 inches across like a large trumpet, permeating the night air with a sweet fragrance. Sturdy stems gives rise to narrow leaves offering a nice contrast to other herbaceous perennials. Typically, Formosa lily produces all while flowers, but our clone has a significant pink streak on the buds and on the backside of each trumpet. After flowering, each spent bud turns up and forms a brown seed pod producing numerous seeds. Be aware, seedlings can show up and sprout throughout the garden. To avoid seedling dispersal, cut the stalks down before seeds split open. Grow Formosa lily in full sun with well-drained soils.     

Join or renew your garden membership during August and your name will be included in a drawing for a complimentary Lilium formosanum.