Lily is one of the most beloved flowers in the garden world, and for good reason. Known for their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and a wide range of colors and fragrances, lilies bring both beauty and structure to any flower bed. Whether you’re aiming for vibrant borders, fragrant summer bouquets, or towering focal points, there’s a lily variety to suit every space and style.
What makes lilies so popular among gardeners is their versatility and ease of care. From compact types that thrive in containers to towering giants that make a bold statement, lilies come in all shapes and sizes. Understanding the different types of lilies can help you plan a garden that blooms from early to late summer, offering months of color and interest.
In this guide, we’ll explore five standout lily varieties that ar
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1. Asiatic Lily
The Asiatic lily is a favorite among gardeners for its bold colors and reliable performance. These lilies are among the earliest to bloom, often signaling the start of summer with a vivid splash of orange, red, yellow, pink, or white. Known for their sturdy stems and upright form, Asiatic lilies are excellent for borders, containers, and cutting gardens.
Unlike some other lily types, Asiatic lilies typically have little to no fragrance, making them ideal for those who prefer unscented blooms. Many cultivars are also pollen-free, which keeps their blooms tidy and reduces allergy concerns.
These lilies are low-maintenance and adapt well to a variety of garden conditions. They grow best in full sun to partial shade and thrive in well-drained soil. With proper care, a single bulb can produce up to a dozen flowers, making Asiatic lilies one of the most rewarding options for vibrant, long-lasting color.
2. Oriental Lily
If you’re dreaming of large, luxurious flowers with unforgettable fragrance, the Oriental lily is a must-have. These lilies are best known for their impressive size—often with blooms measuring 6 to 9 inches across—and their sweet scent that fills the garden in mid to late summer.
Oriental lilies make an elegant statement in the landscape and are often chosen for their romantic appeal. Their blossoms, typically in shades of white, pink, and red, often feature speckles or a contrasting center. They’re a popular choice for wedding bouquets and cut arrangements due to their dramatic presence and perfume.
These lilies grow 3 to 4 feet tall and prefer full sun to partial shade, thriving in well-drained soil. While they bloom slightly later than Asiatic lilies, planting both types allows you to extend your lily season from early summer well into August.
For gardeners who love both beauty and fragrance, Oriental lilies deliver on every front.
3. Border Lily
The Border lily is proof that you don’t need height to make a bold impact. Specially bred to stay compact, these lilies grow just 14 to 18 inches tall, yet they offer full-sized blooms that rival their taller cousins. Their shorter stature makes them perfect for the front of garden beds, along walkways, or in patio containers where their beauty can be admired up close.
Border lilies can be either Asiatic or Oriental hybrids, so bloom times vary from early to late summer depending on the variety. This gives gardeners the flexibility to mix and match for a continuous display. Despite their small size, they pack a visual punch with vibrant colors and strong stems that hold their flowers upright.
Like other lily varieties, border lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade and need well-drained soil to prevent bulb rot. They’re also a fantastic option for cut flower lovers, offering long vase life and easy handling.
If you have limited space or want to add structure to the front of y
4. Giant Lily
For those who want to make a bold statement in the garden, the Giant lily—also known as the Orienpet lily—is a towering standout. These dramatic hybrids are a cross between Oriental and trumpet lilies, combining the best of both worlds: sweet fragrance, large blooms, and impressive height.
In their first year, giant lilies typically grow 3 to 4 feet tall, but don’t be surprised if they soar to 6 or even 8 feet tall within just a few seasons. Their sturdy stems support masses of blossoms, each ranging from 7 to 12 inches across, creating a breathtaking vertical presence in the garden.
These lilies bloom from early to midsummer and are ideal for the back of borders or as a floral privacy screen. Their bold look and intense scent make them equally impressive in cut arrangements—just one or two stems can fill a vase.
Like all lilies, giant lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Just be sure to give them room to grow—they’ll reward you with size and beauty that only gets better year after year.
5. Double Lily
If you love lush, layered blooms, the Double lily is the showstopper your garden needs. These striking flowers feature multiple layers of petals, creating a full, ruffled look that adds luxury and softness to any planting scheme. Often pollen-free, double lilies are especially prized for their clean appearance and allergy-friendly qualities.
Double lilies come in both Asiatic and Oriental hybrids, so you can find varieties that bloom from early to late summer. Their fragrance can range from subtle to strong, depending on the type, and their intricate form makes them a favorite for both garden beds and cut flower arrangements.
Standing 3 to 4 feet tall, these lilies grow well in full sun to partial shade and require the same well-drained soil as other lily types. Because their blooms are so visually rich, they shine best when planted in clusters or as focal points in a mixed border.
For gardeners who want something truly eye-catching, double lilies offer elegance without the fuss—and with none of the mess that comes with traditional pollen-heavy blooms.
Growing Tips for a Thriving Lily Garden
No matter which variety you choose, every lily shares a few basic growing needs that are easy to meet with a bit of planning. When these conditions are right, lilies reward you with stunning blooms that return year after year.
Here’s how to give your lilies the best start:
- Plant in full sun to partial shade: Most lilies prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, but they also benefit from some afternoon shade in hotter climates.
- Use well-drained soil: Lilies hate wet feet. Ensure your planting area drains well—raised beds or adding sand to the soil can help.
- Choose the right spot: Lilies look best in groups of 3 or more. Plant bulbs in clusters rather than single rows to create a fuller, more natural effect.
- Mind the depth: Plant bulbs about 6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up. Space them 8–12 inches apart to give them room to grow.
- Water thoughtfully: Water after planting and keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, especially in heavy soil.
Lilies are hardy in USDA zones 3–8, which makes them suitable for a wide range of climates across the United States. Most varieties can be planted in spring or fall, depending on your local weather.
With minimal care, lilies will return stronger each season—adding reliable beauty and structure to your garden beds.
Final Thoughts on Lily Varieties
Choosing the right lily for your garden can transform your space with vibrant color, fragrance, and structure from early to late summer. Whether you prefer the bold hues of Asiatic lilies, the rich perfume of Oriental types, or the towering drama of Giant lilies, there’s a variety that fits every style and space.
Lilies are more than just beautiful—they’re easy to grow, reliable, and return each year with minimal care. By understanding their unique characteristics, you can build a lily garden that blooms in waves, offering months of interest and plenty of blooms for cutting and sharing.