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Meadow Lily

Lilium canadense editorumfam. Liliaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleherbsedibleedible rootmedicinalnative amornamentalperennialshade tolerant
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Lilium canadense editorum (Meadow Lily) — botanical photograph
Pl. 9F17 — Lilium canadense editorum
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Overview

Meadow Lily (Lilium canadense editorum) is a native North American species that thrives in moist, light to partial sun conditions. Found across states like Alabama, Connecticut, and Kentucky, it grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is known for its ornamental value as well as its edible roots. This hardy plant, suitable for USDA zones 4-8, features distinctive nodding, fragrant flowers that add beauty to meadows and gardens alike. Its light-loving nature and ability to grow in various soil types make it a versatile addition to landscapes. The roots are edible and can be prepared in various ways, typically eaten raw or cooked, or dried for later use. While primarily ornamental and not medicinal, the plant's edible parts make it a valuable addition to foragers and gardeners alike.

Quick answers

What is Meadow Lily?

Meadow Lily (Lilium canadense editorum) is a native North American species that thrives in moist, light to partial sun conditions. Found across states like Alabama, Connecticut, and Kentucky, it grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is known for its ornamental value as well as its edible roots.

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

Meadow Lily thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows best in temperate regions with hardiness zones 4-8. The plant reaches a height of about 1.5 meters and can be propagated through division. Harvest the edible root parts for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Meadow Lily for the first time

7steps

Start with Meadow Lilies to add a touch of wild beauty and potential edibility to your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small bulbs, a trowel, mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late summer for best results.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with light to partial sun. Ensure the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    For seeds, sow them shallowly in the soil. For bulbs, plant them 5-10 cm deep, spaced about 30 cm apart.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly during dry spells and mulch to retain moisture. Fertilize sparingly with compost in early spring.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms, but wait until after the first frost before digging up roots for use.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Meadow Lily's roots are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are typically dug up and eaten raw or cooked. The roots can also be dried for later use. Skip the preparation details to maintain a concise note.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

25 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 25 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Masachusettes, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Rhode I., South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Lilium canadense editorum (Meadow Lily) — botanical photograph
Meadow Lily (Lilium canadense editorum)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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