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IIIFolio · plant profile№ C247edible
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Meadow Lily

Lilium canadense flavum
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 →
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Lilium canadense flavum (Meadow Lily) — botanical photograph
Pl. C247 — Lilium canadense flavum
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Overview

Meadow Lily (Lilium canadense flavum) is a native North American species that thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. This plant can be found in states like Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, and Maryland. Known for its edible root parts, the meadow lily's roots can be prepared in various ways, typically eaten raw or cooked, and can also be dried for later use. The plant reaches up to 1.5 meters in height and is hardy in zones 4-8, making it adaptable to a range of sunlight conditions. Its distinctive features include its height and its ability to grow in various soil types, making it a versatile addition to gardens and natural landscapes. While the roots are edible, caution should be exercised when consuming any wild plants to ensure proper identification and safety.

Quick answers

What is Meadow Lily?

Meadow Lily (Lilium canadense flavum) is a native North American species that thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. This plant can be found in states like Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, and Maryland.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Meadow Lily thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can reach heights of 1.5 meters. Propagate through root division in spring or fall for best results. Harvest the edible roots carefully after the plant has flowered.
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

8steps

Start with Meadow Lilies to add a touch of wild beauty and some edible roots to your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small bulbs, a trowel, compost.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late summer for best results.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a spot with light to partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant bulbs 5-10 cm deep, spacing them about 30 cm apart. For seeds, sow shallowly and cover lightly.

  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. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves in late fall after the foliage has turned yellow. Harvest roots carefully when mature, usually 3-4 years after planting.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch.

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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 have a mild flavor and can also be dried for later use. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Contextrange · companions · related
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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 flavum (Meadow Lily) — botanical photograph
Meadow Lily (Lilium canadense flavum)
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Explore further

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