Tiger Lily
Lilium lancifolium
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Pl. 5730 — Lilium lancifolium
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IOverview
Overview
Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium) is a striking member of the Liliaceae family, native to regions including China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast, Japan, Korea, and parts of Russia such as Manchuria, Primorye, and Sakhalin. This plant thrives in moist conditions with partial sun to full sun exposure, making it adaptable to various light levels. Known for both its ornamental value and edibility, Tiger Lily features distinctive large, tangerine-colored flowers with black spots that resemble a tiger's coat. Its edible parts include the flowers and roots, which can be enjoyed in culinary applications.
Quick answers
What is Tiger Lily?
Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium) is a striking member of the Liliaceae family, native to regions including China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast, Japan, Korea, and parts of Russia such as Manchuria, Primorye, and Sakhalin.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tiger Lily thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows up to 1.2 meters tall. For best results, plant the bulbs in well-draining soil. Propagation can occur through division of mature clumps or by seed. Harvest edible parts such as flowers and roots when needed.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tiger Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with Tiger Lilies by planting them in a sunny spot and providing basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Tiger Lily bulbs, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late summer for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Ensure the soil is light, medium, or heavy but well-draining.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-10 cm deep and 15-20 cm apart in the prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize once a year with compost or well-rotted manure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting mulch, not providing enough sunlight, using chemical fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersRoot
Edible uses: The Tiger Lily is edible and its flowers and roots can be consumed. The flowers are often used raw in salads or as a garnish due to their delicate flavor. Roots can be eaten fresh or cooked, though they may require peeling before consumption. They can also be dried for later use. Skip the preparation details if you're looking for quick uses.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 19 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 19 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 11 native· 19 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Kuril Is., Primorye, Sakhalin
introduced:Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Rhode I.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 57303133-950d-4a00-8562-7a64345f16dc
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