Lilies add elegance and beauty to gardens with their striking blooms, but not all flowers called “lilies” are true lilies. The difference between true lily vs daylily is significant in terms of botanical classification, growth habits, and care needs. Understanding these distinctions helps gardeners choose the right plants for their landscapes. This guide explores everything you need to know about true lilies and daylilies, including their differences, how to grow them, and best care practices.
What Is a True Lily?
A true lily belongs to the genus Lilium and is a perennial flowering plant grown from bulbs. These plants are known for their tall, upright stems, trumpet-shaped flowers, and wide variety of colors. True lilies are prized for their elegant appearance and fragrant blooms, making them a favorite in gardens and floral arrangements.
Key Characteristics of True Lilies
- Scientific Classification: True lilies belong to the Liliaceae family and the Lilium genus.
- Growth Habit: They grow from underground bulbs that produce a single, unbranched stem.
- Flowers: Blooms appear in clusters at the top of the stem, with six petal-like tepals.
- Blooming Season: Summer, with varieties blooming from early to late season.
- Foliage: Narrow leaves grow in a spiral or whorled pattern along the stem.
- Lifespan: Perennial, returning year after year with proper care.
- Toxicity: True lilies are highly toxic to cats, making them a risky choice for pet owners.
What Is a Daylily?
Despite its name, a daylily (Hemerocallis) is not a true lily. It belongs to the Asphodelaceae family and is known for its grass-like foliage and multiple blooms on arching scapes (stems). Each daylily flower lasts for just one day, but the plant produces multiple buds, ensuring continuous blooms.
Key Characteristics of Daylilies
- Scientific Classification: Daylilies belong to the Hemerocallis genus, separate from true lilies.
- Growth Habit: They grow from fleshy roots and rhizomes rather than bulbs.
- Flowers: Each bloom lasts one day, but a single plant can produce numerous flowers over a long season.
- Blooming Season: Late spring to summer, with some varieties reblooming in fall.
- Foliage: Long, arching, grass-like leaves that form clumps.
- Lifespan: Perennial and low-maintenance, thriving in various conditions.
- Toxicity: Daylilies are non-toxic to pets and safe for gardens with cats and dogs.
True Lily vs Daylily: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | True Lily (Lilium) | Daylily (Hemerocallis) |
| Family | Liliaceae | Asphodelaceae |
| Growth Type | Bulb | Fleshy roots/rhizomes |
| Stems | Single, unbranched | Multiple, branched scapes |
| Flowers | Last several days | Each bloom lasts one day |
| Foliage | Spiral or whorled leaves | Grass-like, arching leaves |
| Blooming Season | Summer (early to late) | Late spring to summer |
| Toxicity | Toxic to cats | Non-toxic to pets |
| Care Needs | Moderate to high maintenance | Low maintenance |
How to Grow and Care for True Lilies
True lilies need well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and careful maintenance to thrive. Follow these guidelines for optimal growth:
Planting True Lilies
- Best Time to Plant: Fall or early spring.
- Soil Requirements: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
- Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours daily).
- Spacing: 8–12 inches apart to allow airflow and prevent disease.
Caring for True Lilies
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming.
- Mulching: Add mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage new growth.
- Winter Care: Apply mulch in cold climates to protect bulbs.
How to Grow and Care for Daylilies
Daylilies are resilient and adaptable, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners.
Planting Daylilies
- Best Time to Plant: Spring or early fall.
- Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil, adaptable to various pH levels.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
- Spacing: 12–18 inches apart to accommodate spreading growth.
Caring for Daylilies
- Watering: Water regularly but tolerate drought well.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Mulching: Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Deadheading: Removing spent blooms encourages more flowers.
- Dividing: Every 3–5 years to prevent overcrowding.
Choosing Between True Lilies and Daylilies
If you prefer classic, long-lasting blooms with an elegant look, true lilies are the ideal choice. However, if you need low-maintenance, long-blooming, pet-friendly flowers, daylilies are a better fit. Both plants can add beauty and variety to your garden, depending on your space and care preferences.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between true lily vs daylily helps you make informed decisions for your garden. True lilies are regal, structured plants grown from bulbs, requiring dedicated care. Daylilies, on the other hand, offer a carefree, long-blooming alternative with minimal maintenance. No matter your choice, both flowers bring charm and vibrancy to any landscape. Happy gardening!
