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Asian Lily

Lilium amabilefam. Liliaceae
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Lilium amabile (Lilium amabile) — botanical photograph
Pl. 019B — Lilium amabile
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Overview

Asian Lily, known botanically as Lilium amabile, is a species native to Korea and Manchuria. This lily thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light or sandy. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 4-8. The plant is notable for its edible parts, which include the flowers, leaves, roots, and shoots. Its beauty and utility make it a valued addition to gardens and culinary dishes alike. One distinctive feature of this lily is its light, airy form that adds grace to any landscape. The flowers, particularly, can be eaten fresh or used in cooked dishes, while other parts can be steamed or stir-fried to add flavor. Regular watering is essential to maintain moisture levels, especially during dry periods. While the plant is not medicinal, its edible and ornamental qualities make it a versatile choice for gardeners and chefs.

Quick answers

What is Asian Lily?

Asian Lily, known botanically as Lilium amabile, is a species native to Korea and Manchuria. This lily thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light or sandy. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 4-8.

Compare with:Bamboo Lily→Chocolate Lily→Curculigo orchioides→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Lilium amabile thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows best in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant reaches a height of about 1 meter and can be propagated through division or seed sowing. Edible parts include the flowers, leaves, roots, and shoots. Regular watering is essential to maintain moisture levels, especially during dry periods.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Asian Lily for the first time

8steps

Start with Asian Lily for a beginner-friendly gardening experience.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Lily bulbs, potting soil, garden gloves.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late summer/early fall.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0; ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant bulbs 5-10 cm deep, spacing them about 20 cm apart in the garden or container.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a few days.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade, water regularly, and mulch around the base of the plants.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health; dig up bulbs in late fall for storage if needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight, and forgetting to divide overcrowded bulbs.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootShoots
Edible uses: The Lilium amabile is edible with various parts used in culinary preparations. The flowers, leaves, roots, and shoots can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, the flowers are eaten fresh, while other parts may be steamed or stir-fried to add flavor to dishes. Roots can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaSouth Korea
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Lilium amabile (Lilium amabile) — botanical photograph
Lilium amabile (Lilium amabile)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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