Columbia Tiger Lily
Lilium columbianum
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Pl. 6FA0 — Lilium columbianum
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IOverview
Overview
Columbia Tiger Lily (Lilium columbianum) is a striking member of the Liliaceae family, native to the Pacific Northwest and northern California, specifically in regions such as British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This hardy plant thrives in a variety of habitats, from moist, light (sandy) to medium soil, and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It prefers full to partial sun, making it an excellent addition to gardens and natural landscapes. The Columbia Tiger Lily is known for its vibrant orange and yellow blooms, which add a pop of color to any setting. Its edible roots are a valuable food source, often prepared by boiling to soften them before consumption. The roots can be eaten raw or cooked, providing a nutritious treat. While the plant is primarily ornamental, its edible parts make it a useful addition to both gardens and culinary dishes. Columbia Tiger Lily is hardy in zones 5-10, making it adaptable to a range of climates. For propagation, divide the bulbs in early spring or fall.
Quick answers
What is Columbia Tiger Lily?
Columbia Tiger Lily (Lilium columbianum) is a striking member of the Liliaceae family, native to the Pacific Northwest and northern California, specifically in regions such as British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Columbia Tiger Lily thrives in full to partial sun, requiring moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy) to medium. It is hardy in zones 5-10, making it suitable for temperate regions. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through division of the rootstock or by seed. The plant grows to a height of 1.5 meters and is native to areas including British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Its edible roots can be harvested for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-10
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Columbia Tiger Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Columbia Tiger Lilies in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Columbia Tiger Lily bulbs, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early fall or late winter/early spring.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial sun. Ensure the soil is sandy to medium and well-draining.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Dig holes about 15 cm deep and plant bulbs with the pointed end up, spacing them 30-45 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water thoroughly after planting. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize once in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms, but avoid cutting back foliage until it yellows naturally.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting mulch, not providing enough sunlight, and using heavy fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Columbia Tiger Lily's roots are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often prepared by boiling to soften them before consumption. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they were not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
Native to
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