Woodland lilies

RHS Genus Guide

Smaller and less robust-looking than border lilies, natural woodlanders like Martagon lilies and some species lilies thrive in light shade. Grow them in partially shaded borders alongside hostas and other shade-lovers, in meadows or in groups under trees to follow spring bulbs.

Botanical name: Lilium

Common name: Lily

RHS

Appearance

Plants grow from bulbs and reach up to a metre in height. They produce spires of 'Turk's cap' flowers, where the petals turn upwards, exposing the anthers and stamens inside. Flowers may be white, pink, red, yellow or orange and can be subtly marked or spotted. These are some of the earliest lilies to flower in June and July.

Preferences

These lilies prefer cool conditions, ideally in light dappled shade, with humus-rich soil that stays moist while they are growing strongly in spring and summer.

Dislikes

They don't do well in full sun or very dry soil in shade. They won't flower in deep shade.

Did you know?

You can also grow these lilies in grass to create a summer-meadow planting. Leave the grass unmown to ensure the lower parts of the plants are kept cool.

RHS Growing Guide