Do you know Flore Pleno?
Flore Pleno lilies are not only great naturalizers, they offer a special secret to growers, too!
For those who appreciate the beauty of lilies, the Flore Pleno lily is a must-have addition to gardens in zone 3-9. It’s an extraordinary cut flower and makes for a good perennial, too. With its double-petaled blooms and captivating fragrance, this heirloom variety brings an old-world charm that continues to enchant gardeners. Let’s explore the history, propagation methods, ideal growing conditions, and the breathtaking beauty of Flore Pleno lilies.
The Origin of Flore Pleno Lilies
Flore Pleno lilies (Lilium lancifolium ‘Flore Pleno’), also known as double tiger lilies, have a rich history rooted in East Asia. Native to China, Japan, and Korea, these lilies have been cultivated for centuries and were introduced to Western gardens in the 19th century. Unlike the traditional tiger lily, which features a single row of petals, Flore Pleno showcases multiple layers of petals, creating a full and ruffled effect that adds depth and drama to any floral display.
How to Propagate Flore Pleno Lilies
Unlike many other lilies that can be propagated through seeds, Flore Pleno lilies are sterile, meaning they do not produce viable seeds. Instead, they are propagated through their bulbils—tiny bulb-like growths that form along the stem in the leaf axils. These bulbils can be collected in late summer or early fall and planted in well-draining soil to develop into mature bulbs over several years. You literally just pluck the bulbils off the stem and tuck them into the soil nearby or into pots for propagation. Additionally, Flore Pleno lilies can be divided by separating the bulb offsets, ensuring a steady supply of these stunning flowers for years to come. Flore Pleno lilies can also be scaled (a process by which individual bulb scales are used to grow new tiny bulbs).
Ideal Growing Conditions for Flore Pleno Lilies
Flore Pleno lilies thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9, making them a versatile choice for many gardeners across North America. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Regular watering is essential, but care should be taken to avoid waterlogging, as excessive moisture can lead to bulb rot. These lilies are also known for their resilience and can naturalize well in the garden, returning year after year with an even more impressive display.
The Beauty of Flore Pleno Lilies in Bloom
When in bloom during mid-to-late summer, Flore Pleno lilies command attention with their fiery orange blossoms adorned with dark speckles. The fully double flowers, which can reach up to 3-4 inches across, have a graceful, recurved form, giving them an elegant, cascading appearance. Their rich fragrance attracts pollinators like butterflies, making them not only a visual delight but also a beneficial addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
Whether grown in borders, containers, naturalized in a cottage-style garden, Flore Pleno lilies bring a unique and timeless beauty to any landscape. With their fascinating history, ease of propagation, and stunning summer blooms, these double tiger lilies are sure to remain a favorite among gardeners for generations to come.
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