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Madonna Lily

Lilium candidum
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Lilium candidum (Madonna Lily) — botanical photograph
Pl. 1F2B — Lilium candidum
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I

Overview

The Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum) is a striking member of the Liliaceae family, native to regions including East Aegean Islands, Greece, Lebanon-Syria, Palestine, Turkey, and Yugoslavia. Known for its ornamental value, this lily also has edible roots that are often used in culinary dishes. The plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7.5–8, growing to a height of about 1 meter. Its distinctive white flowers, which can be up to 20 cm across, are often associated with religious symbolism, particularly the Virgin Mary in Christian iconography.

Quick answers

What is Madonna Lily?

The Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum) is a striking member of the Liliaceae family, native to regions including East Aegean Islands, Greece, Lebanon-Syria, Palestine, Turkey, and Yugoslavia. Known for its ornamental value, this lily also has edible roots that are often used in culinary dishes.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

The Madonna Lily thrives in light to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 5-9 and reaches a height of about 1 meter. For propagation, gardeners can use bulb division or seed sowing. The plant requires regular watering to maintain its moisture needs but should not be overwatered. Soil pH should be maintained between 7.5 and 8 for optimal growth.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is November
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers

How to grow Madonna Lily for the first time

8steps

Start with Madonna Lilies to gain experience in growing lilies, focusing on basic care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A few Madonna Lily bulbs and a trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in autumn after the first frost or spring before new growth starts.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a well-draining spot with light, medium, or heavy soil. Ensure pH is 7.5–8.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant bulbs 10-15 cm deep and 20-30 cm apart in the prepared soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to avoid rotting. Keep the area weed-free.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize once a year with compost.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and remove yellowed leaves for better appearance.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Planting too deep, overwatering, using incorrect soil pH, neglecting to fertilize, and not providing enough light.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Madonna Lily's root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, the roots are cooked to enhance their flavor and texture. They can also be dried for later use, preserving their nutritional value without altering their taste significantly. Skip any raw consumption as it may not be palatable or fully digestible.
Other uses:Essential OilFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

6 native · 21 introduced
Distribution across3 continents· 6 native· 21 introduced
Europe9 regions
native (1)Greece
introduced (8)AlbaniaBulgariaFranceItalyPortugalRussiaSpainUkraine
Asia2 regions
native (2)PalestineTurkey
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaTunisia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Lebanon-Syria, Yugoslavia
introduced:Czechoslovakia, Mexico Central, Mexico Southwest, Pennsylvania, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Lilium candidum (Madonna Lily) — botanical photograph
Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum)
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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