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Henry's lily

Lilium henryi
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Lilium henryi (Henry's lily) — botanical photograph
Pl. CECA — Lilium henryi
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Overview

Henry's lily, scientifically known as Lilium henryi, is a striking perennial native to the mountainous regions of China South-Central and Southeast. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. Hardy from zones 5-8, it can grow up to 1.8 meters tall. Known for its edible roots, Henry's lily is both ornamental and useful as a food source, adding a unique touch to gardens while providing sustenance. Its distinctive feature includes large, trumpet-shaped flowers that come in various shades of pink and white, making it a popular addition to landscapes. The root of Henry's lily is edible and can be prepared in various ways; it is often cooked or dried before consumption, though the raw form may not be palatable. While the plant is not medicinal, its roots offer a valuable culinary addition to gardens and meals.

Quick answers

What is Henry's lily?

Henry's lily, scientifically known as Lilium henryi, is a striking perennial native to the mountainous regions of China South-Central and Southeast. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Henry's lily thrives in full to partial sun, requiring moist, light to medium soil. It is hardy in zones 5-8 and grows to a height of 1.8 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist, and provide ample sunlight, though partial shade can also be suitable. Propagation can be done through root division. Harvest the edible root parts for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-8
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Henry's lily for the first time

8steps

Start with Henry's lily to gain experience in growing bulbs.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Henry's lily bulbs, a garden fork or trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late summer for best results.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant bulbs about 15 cm deep, spacing them 30-45 cm apart.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize lightly in spring.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and remove yellow leaves for a tidy appearance.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting to fertilize, not providing enough sunlight, and failing to prune.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Henry's lily is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often cooked or dried before consumption. Skip the raw form as it may not be palatable.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Lilium henryi (Henry's lily) — botanical photograph
Henry's lily (Lilium henryi)
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About this entry

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