Origin and Common Names
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin, commonly known as the Canadian lily or the meadow lily, is a herbaceous perennial plant species that is native to North America. It is typically found in moist meadows, prairies, and open woods across the central and eastern regions of the continent. The plant is named after its country of origin, Canada, and is prevalent throughout the Canadian provinces, as well as northern parts of the United States including Alaska.
General Appearance
The Canadian lily can grow up to 4 feet tall and has narrow, pointed leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The plant produces large, showy flowers on tall stems that can range in color from yellow to orange-red. Each flower has six petals, with distinct, dark spots near the center. The flowers bloom in early to mid-summer, typically in June or July.
Uses
The Canadian lily is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping, as well as for cut flower arrangements. The plant's showy flowers and tall stems make it a popular choice for adding color and height to flower beds. Some indigenous populations have also historically used the plant for medicinal purposes, primarily as a poultice or tea made from the leaves to treat skin irritations.
It's important to note that the Canadian lily is toxic to cats, and can cause renal failure if ingested. Indoor cat owners should avoid having the plant in their homes.
Light Requirements
The Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin plant is a sun-loving plant that requires plenty of bright, direct sunlight to grow their best. These plants can tolerate some partial shade, but they will not thrive in a fully shaded area.
Temperature Requirements
The Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin plant requires a cool climate to thrive. These plants grow best in temperate climates with cool summers and mild winters. These plants can tolerate freezing temperatures, but they cannot withstand hot, dry climates.
Soil Requirements
The Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin plant requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, as this can promote root rot and other diseases. This plant prefers acidic, humus-rich soil with good water retention. The soil should be moist but not soggy, and the plant should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Cultivation
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin is a beautiful plant that can be grown successfully in various regions of North America. To cultivate this plant, you should select a well-drained site with partial or full sun exposure. The soil in this area should be slightly acidic to neutral, and loose enough to allow root penetration. Dig a hole that is two times the size of the root ball, and add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil. Plant the bulb in the hole with the top of the bulb just below the soil level, and gently press soil around it.
Watering needs
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. However, it is vital to avoid flooding or waterlogging the plant, as it may cause root rot. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water loss by evaporation. If the weather is hot and dry, water the plant more often to compensate for the higher rate of evaporation.
Fertilization
Fertilizer application is crucial to promote the growth and flowering of Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin. Apply a complete granular fertilizer once in the spring and then again after flowering. The fertilizer should be evenly spread in a circle around the base of the plant and worked into the soil. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as it can burn the roots and reduce plant growth.
Pruning
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin does not require pruning, except for removing faded flowers to encourage more blooms. When the flowers fade, use a sharp and sterile pair of scissors to cut off the stem above the first set of leaves. This process helps divert more energy to bulb development instead of producing seed pods. Once the plant has finished flowering, allow the leaves to die down naturally, as they provide nutrients to the bulb for the next season.
Propagation of Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin, commonly known as wild yellow lily or Canada lily, is a species of lily native to North America. As a desirable ornamental plant, it is often propagated for the use in gardens and landscape enhancement.
By Seed
Propagation of Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin can be done through division or seed. Growing from seed can be easy, but it requires patience as they can take 2-3 years to bloom. Seed should be sown in the fall or winter. To propagate the plant, the seed should undergo stratification to help break down the germination inhibitors. With a moist medium and cool temperatures, the seeds will begin to germinate in the spring.
By Division
As Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin bulb plant has a tough outer layer that can be difficult to navigate, the best time to divide the bulbs for propagation is during autumn, as the plant is becoming dormant. The bulbs need to be lifted and separated. The bulbs should be then planted in well-draining soil in a new location. It's important to be careful not to plant too deep as this can cause the bulbs to rot. The newly planted bulb should receive plenty of sunlight and moisture.
With proper attention and care, both seed growth and bulb division can lead to successful propagation of Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin. Whether someone is starting new bulbs or seedlings, propagating plants is an enjoyable way to pass the time and results in an attractive addition to any garden.
Disease Management
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Botrytis blight - This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and collapse of the leaves and flowers. It can also cause a gray mold on the plant. To prevent botrytis blight, keep the plant dry, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected parts of the plant.
- Leaf spot - Several types of fungi can cause leaf spot, which results in circular spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may become distorted and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot - This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Lilium canadense L. var. umbelliferum (Farw.) Boivin can also be affected by pests, such as:
- Red lily beetle - These beetles can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and flowers. To manage red lily beetle, handpick them off the plant and dispose of them. You can also use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.
- Slugs and snails - These pests can eat large holes in the leaves of the plant. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them off the plant and dispose of them. You can also use a slug bait that contains iron phosphate.
- Spider mites - These pests are tiny and can cause the leaves to become discolored and covered in webbing. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to wash them off. You can also use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.
