Lilium brownii aka Hong Kong Lily

Lilium brownii is considered challenging to cultivate and is often described as "very difficult in cultivation" by horticultural experts. Even commercially produced bulbs rarely last more than a season or two in gardens due to susceptibility to basal rot and viral infections. Success requires well-drained, humus-rich soil, consistent summer moisture with dry winter conditions, and protection from slugs during spring emergence. It grows well at Kew Gardens but is not reliably hardy everywhere.

Lilium brownii requires moist soil during the summer growing season but prefers dry conditions during winter dormancy. Water regularly during active growth to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as good drainage is essential to prevent bulb rot. Reduce watering significantly after flowering as the foliage dies back, and keep the bulbs relatively dry through winter.

Lilium brownii thrives in open, free-draining, humus-rich loamy soil. It is suitable for light (sandy) to medium (loamy) soils and requires excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot. The ideal pH ranges from mildly acidic to neutral, though it can tolerate slightly alkaline conditions. Plant the bulbs 20-25cm deep as this is a stem-rooting species that forms roots along the buried stem.

As an outdoor bulb native to the slopes and ravines of central China, Lilium brownii tolerates a range of humidity levels but does not require high humidity. It grows naturally in habitats ranging from sparse forests to exposed rocky hillsides. Average outdoor humidity is generally sufficient, and the plant is more sensitive to soil moisture than atmospheric humidity.

Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer in early spring as growth begins, and a low-nitrogen fertilizer after flowering to support bulb development for next year. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote foliage at the expense of flowers and can weaken the bulb.

Lilium brownii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and UK hardiness zone 5. When fully dormant, the bulbs can survive temperatures down to approximately -25°C (-13°F). However, emerging shoots are sensitive to frost, so the plant does not enter growth until late spring. Some sources note the species tolerates only about -3°C in certain conditions, suggesting regional variation in hardiness.

Lilium brownii can be propagated by several methods. Bulb division in autumn after foliage dies is the easiest approach—simply separate offset bulbs and replant immediately. Scale propagation involves removing outer bulb scales in early autumn and placing them in damp peat in warm, dark conditions to produce bulblets. Stem bulblets that form below soil level can be harvested in autumn and grown on. Seed propagation shows immediate epigeal germination in 2-4 weeks when sown in late winter, though the type species is self-sterile and doesn't set seed.

Lilium brownii typically grows to 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall, with some cultivars reaching up to 1.5 meters (5 feet). The plant has a moderate growth rate, emerging late in spring and flowering in July. The underground bulbs measure 25-40mm in diameter and are composed of many overlapping fleshy scales. Plants form clumps that can spread to approximately 30cm over time as bulbs naturally divide.

Lilium brownii produces magnificent large trumpet-shaped flowers that are pure white on the inside with striking purple-pink to chocolate-brown coloration on the exterior. The flowers are carried in clusters at the stem tips, with some cultivars producing 12-17 blooms per stem. They emit a soft, sweet fragrance that is particularly pronounced in the var. viridulum. Flowering occurs in July, with the attractive bicolored buds making the plant ornamental even before blooming.

Yes, Lilium brownii flowers emit a soft, sweet fragrance. The scent is particularly pronounced in var. viridulum, which is known for its strongly scented flowers that open soft yellow before fading to white. The fragrance is not overpowering but adds to the plant's appeal as an ornamental garden lily.

Yes, Lilium brownii is an outdoor garden plant that requires outdoor cultivation. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and UK hardiness zone 5, surviving temperatures down to -25°C when dormant. Plant bulbs in autumn in a sunny position with the roots shaded, in well-drained humus-rich soil. It grows naturally on grassy slopes, rocky hillsides, and sparse forests in China at elevations of 100-2,200 meters.

In spring, protect emerging shoots from slugs as growth begins late in the season. During summer, maintain consistent soil moisture and enjoy the July flowers. After flowering, reduce watering as foliage yellows and dies back. In autumn, divide bulbs if needed and prepare for dormancy. Through winter, keep the bulbs dry and protect from waterlogged soil. Apply mulch in cold climates for additional winter protection.

Lilium brownii is susceptible to several issues that make it challenging in cultivation. Slugs are a major threat, particularly to emerging shoots in spring—protection is essential. Basal rot affects the bulbs, and viral infections are common, meaning even commercially produced bulbs rarely last more than a season or two. Lily beetle may also attack the foliage. Using virus-free bulb stock and good garden hygiene helps prevent problems.

Three accepted varieties of Lilium brownii are recognized: var. brownii (the type variety), var. viridulum (the most commonly cultivated form with strongly scented flowers that open yellow before fading to white), and var. chloraster. The cultivar 'Sichuan Splendor' was collected from high-altitude cliffs in China and has proven excellent for hot climates, producing dramatic clusters of 12-17 fragrant white trumpets on 5-foot stems.

Yes, the bulbs of Lilium brownii are edible when cooked, with a pleasant, slightly sweet taste. They have been consumed in China for approximately 2,000 years and can be prepared similarly to potatoes—boiled, roasted, or sliced. The bulb is also used for starch extraction and grated as a soup thickener. Dried flower petals are used to flavor soups. Edible bulbs are occasionally sold in ethnic markets in San Francisco and remain a common cultivated food throughout China.

Yes, the bulb of Lilium brownii possesses antitussive, diuretic, carminative, expectorant, febrifuge, pectoral, sedative, and tonic properties. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for about 2,000 years to treat coughs with chest pain, anxiety, edema, and urinary difficulties. The bulbils from leaf axils address intestinal disorders, while powdered dried flowers serve as poultices for bruises and cuts. In the Japanese pharmacopoeia, scales from var. colchesteri are officially listed as medicinal.

Beyond ornamental, culinary, and medicinal applications, Lilium brownii has cosmetic uses. The bulb extract and juice from flowers, leaves, and stems function as skin conditioners and emollients in commercial cosmetics. The plant is also valued in food forest and scented garden designs, where its fragrant flowers and attractive appearance provide multiple functions.

Hong Kong Lily’s native range is E. Asia - Southern China from Hong Kong, to Burma.

To ensure optimal growth, the Hong Kong Lily prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.