Lilium leichtlinii aka Leichtlin's Lily

Lilium leichtlinii is considered a challenging species to cultivate successfully. PFAF notes that 'this species is very difficult to grow,' though the orange-flowered subspecies maximowiczii is generally easier. Success requires specific conditions: light, humus-rich, acidic soil with excellent drainage, consistent moisture (especially in late spring), and protection from midday sun. The bulbs are stem-rooting and must be planted 15cm deep. Protection from rabbits and slugs is essential, as damage to the shoot tip can cause the bulb to lose vigor for an entire season.

Lilium leichtlinii requires consistently moist but well-drained soil. In its native habitat, it grows in moist meadows and river valleys, indicating a preference for reliable moisture. Water regularly during the growing season (spring through flowering), particularly in late spring when moisture is most critical. Apply a summer mulch to help keep roots cool and retain moisture. Avoid overwatering as root rot can be problematic, and ensure the soil never becomes waterlogged. During winter dormancy, reduce watering significantly.

Lilium leichtlinii thrives in light, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil with excellent drainage. PFAF recommends 'a cool well-drained peat, leaf-mold and sand mix' and notes the plant naturally grows in 'humus-rich soils in river valleys.' RHS indicates it tolerates chalk, loam, or sand-based soils. The ideal pH is mildly acidic (around 6.0). Good drainage is essential to prevent bulb rot.

Feed Lilium leichtlinii twice during the growing season: first in early spring as new growth emerges, and again just as the flowers begin to open. If soil tests indicate low potassium levels, supplement with muriate of potash or a fertilizer high in this nutrient, as potassium promotes strong bulb and root development. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote weak, leggy growth. A balanced bulb fertilizer or one formulated for flowering plants works well.

Lilium leichtlinii can be propagated by three main methods. Bulb scale propagation involves removing scales in early autumn, placing them in a warm (21°C), dark location in moist peat for six weeks until bulblets form, then potting individually. Division of established clumps can be done in autumn when foliage dies back. Unlike Lilium lancifolium, this species does not produce stem bulbils for propagation.

Lilium leichtlinii typically reaches 1-1.5 metres (3-5 feet) in height with a spread of 30-50cm. The plant grows from stem-rooting bulbs that should be planted 15cm deep. Growth rate is moderate once established. Each summer the bulb produces a single flowering stem bearing pendant, recurved flowers in a candelabra arrangement, dying back to ground level in winter.

Lilium leichtlinii produces elegant, pendant (downward-facing) flowers with strongly recurved petals in the classic Turk's cap style. The type form features golden-yellow blooms with distinctive chocolate-brown or reddish-purple spots. Flowers appear in July-August, arranged in a radiant candelabra pattern on the stem. The subspecies maximowiczii has orange flowers instead of yellow. A notable characteristic is the woolly (hairy) texture on the buds and outer base of the petals. This species is not fragrant. Seeds ripen in September-October.

Two subspecies of Lilium leichtlinii are recognized. The type form, subsp. leichtlinii, has yellow flowers with reddish-purple spots and is restricted to central Honshu, Japan, where it grows among tall grasses in moist meadows. The subspecies maximowiczii (sometimes listed as a variety) has orange flowers and occurs throughout Japan, Korea, China, and the Russian Far East. The orange-flowered form is generally easier to cultivate and was historically confused with Lilium lancifolium, leading to synonyms like var. tigrinum. Unlike L. lancifolium, neither subspecies produces stem bulbils.

Lilium leichtlinii is a hardy outdoor bulb suitable for USDA zones 4-8 (UK hardiness zone 5, RHS rating H6). It withstands winter temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F). Plant bulbs in autumn (early to mid-autumn in cool areas, up to late autumn in warmer regions) at 15cm depth in a sheltered position. Choose an east, south, or west-facing aspect. The plant performs best with roots in shade (use ground-cover companions like ferns or geraniums) and upper growth in sun. Protect from strong winds and stake tall stems if necessary.

Lilium leichtlinii is susceptible to several pests and diseases common to lilies. The lily beetle is a significant pest, especially in northeastern regions, with both larvae and adults feeding on foliage, buds, and flowers. Other pests include aphids, slugs, snails, thrips, vine weevils (in containers), leatherjackets, and wireworms. Rabbits and voles may also cause damage. Disease risks include lily disease (Botrytis) and other fungal infections. Protect emerging shoots in early spring as damage to the growing tip can cause the bulb to skip a year's growth and lose vigor.

Lilium leichtlinii is fully hardy and tolerates winter cold down to -20°C (-4°F), corresponding to USDA zones 4-8 and RHS hardiness rating H6. The bulbs require a cold winter dormancy period for proper development. During the growing season, the plant prefers cool conditions, which is why shade at the roots is recommended. Hot, dry conditions should be avoided. A summer mulch helps maintain cool soil temperatures around the roots during warm weather.

Lilium leichtlinii requires minimal pruning. RHS notes 'pruning is not required' for this species. Deadheading spent flowers improves the plant's appearance and prevents energy going into seed production (unless you want to collect seeds). Leave the foliage to die back naturally after flowering, as the leaves continue to photosynthesize and feed the bulb for next year's growth. Only remove stems once they have completely yellowed and died back, typically in late autumn.

In autumn, plant new bulbs 15cm deep or divide established clumps after foliage dies back. During winter dormancy, the bulbs require no care but benefit from mulch protection in colder zones. In early spring, protect emerging shoots from slugs and rabbits, and apply the first fertilizer feed. Through spring and summer, maintain consistent moisture and apply a second fertilizer feed as flowers open. Stake tall stems if needed and watch for lily beetle. After flowering (late summer), allow foliage to yellow naturally. Collect seeds in September-October if propagating.

Lilium leichtlinii is not fragrant. Multiple horticultural sources confirm this species lacks the strong scent found in some other lily species like Oriental lilies. The flowers are valued for their attractive appearance - the elegant pendant form, golden-yellow color, and distinctive spotted markings - rather than for fragrance.

The bulb of Lilium leichtlinii is edible when cooked. PFAF rates its edibility as 2 out of 5 and describes the bulb as 'rich in starch, it can be used as a vegetable in similar ways to potatoes.' However, while safe for human consumption when properly prepared, all parts of the plant are extremely toxic to cats and can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Exercise extreme caution if you have pets, and never bring any plant parts indoors where cats might access them.

Lilium leichtlinii is pollinated by bees and other insects. The flowers are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female reproductive organs. The pendant flower shape, colorful markings, and recurved petals are typical adaptations for insect pollination, making the reproductive parts accessible to visiting pollinators. Seeds ripen from September to October following successful pollination.

Leichtlin's Lily’s native range is E. Asia - Japan.

To ensure optimal growth, the Leichtlin's 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's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.