Lilium candidum aka Madonna Lily
Taxonomy
Lilium candidum, commonly known as the Madonna lily or white lily, is a plant belonging to the true lily family. Indigenous to the Balkans and Middle East, it has also been naturalized in various parts of Europe, including France, Italy, and Ukraine, as well as in North Africa, the Canary Islands, Mexico, and other regions. This magnificent flower has been cultivated for over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest flowers in existence, and holds significant symbolic value across numerous cultures. However, this delicate lily is prone to several virus diseases, as well as susceptibility to the Botrytis fungus. To mitigate these issues, growing the plants from seed rather than bulblets is recommended.
A perennial plant, L. candidum can reach heights of up to 1.8m, boasting glossy dark green leaves scattered along its stems. During the summer, it produces fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers measuring 6-8cm in length, which are carried in clusters of up to 20 at the top of the stems.
The Madonna Lily, or Lilium candidum, is an ancient flower with a rich history. It has been found in the ruins of Crete and Egypt, and its presence can be traced back to ancient times. Belonging to the Liliaceae family, the name Lilium refers to its lily-like appearance, while candidum signifies its striking white and sparkling petals. This flower holds great religious significance, often depicted in religious paintings as a symbol of Mary and the Catholic Church. Revered as a representation of purity and virtue, the Madonna Lily continues to captivate and inspire.
Common names
Madonna Lily, White Lily, Shirley Poppies And Lilium CandidumHow to care for Madonna Lily
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Madonna Lily is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Madonna Lily should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Madonna Lily loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Madonna Lily prefers bright indirect 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.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Humidity
The Madonna Lily does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.
Fertilizer
The Madonna Lily is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Madonna Lily’s native range is the Northern Hemisphere.
More info:
Wikipedia
