Stargazer Lilies are one of the most eye-catching flowers available, and, as an added bonus, they are available year round for the cut flower market! They are famous for their large petals and incredibly fragrant blooms. When the Stargazer lilies cast their fragrance, it smells like every inch around you is filled with a warm summer night atmosphere. Keep reading to learn more about these lovely blooms.
Origin
Stargazer lilies are a type of Oriental Lily developed in the 1970s by crossing Asiatic hybrids. Stargazer lilies get their name from their distinctive shape. The petals of the flower curve upwards, making it look like the stamens are pointing at the stars, hence the name ‘stargazer.’
Stargazer lilies are native to Japan, Korea, and China but are now grown worldwide.
Symbolism
In many cultures, the stargazer lily symbolizes prosperity, wealth, and good luck. In China, for example, the stargazer lily is seen as a ‘lucky flower’ because it is believed to bring good fortune to those who receive it.
This beautiful flower is also associated with brightness, beauty, and a love of astronomy.
Plant & Care Tips
If you’re interested in growing Stargazer Lilies, they may be difficult to find at your local nursery, yet they are worth the effort. Here are some tips on how to plant and take care of these lovely flowers:
Light: Stargazer lilies prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Plant them in an area that receives eight hours of sunlight daily. If you live in an area with scorching summers, you may want to provide some afternoon shade to prevent the flowers from wilting in the heat.
Soil: They do best in soils with a pH between 6.3 and 6.8, which is slightly acidic. But they can grow well in alkaline soils if fed with an acid fertilizer.
Water: Keep the soil moist, but avoid making it soggy because the bulbs may rot. The best way to keep it moist is by soaking the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Be careful not to water overhead because it can damage the blossoms.
Fertilizer: The best way to fertilize these beauties is with a balanced fertilizer, such as a generous amount of 10-10-10 in early spring after shoots have emerged. And then, during the growth season, add small quantities once every few weeks.
Toxicity:
Stargazer lilies are toxic to cats, so if you have a feline friend at home, it’s best to keep them away from these flowers.
Pests & Diseases: These flowers are relatively trouble-free but are susceptible to fungal diseases such as Botrytis blight, so make sure to plant them in well-drained soils.
Pruning:
The stargazer lily is a beautiful and unique flower that is relatively easy to care for. However, once the bloom has faded, it is important to take measures to prevent seed pods from forming. Cutting the bloom off its stalk is the best way to achieve this. This process is called deadheading.
The foliage should be left alone as long as it remains green, as the plant will use it to gather energy. Once all the greenery has died back, and the foliage turns completely brown, cut the stalks down to the soil level. Taking these steps will ensure that the stargazer lily continues to thrive.
Propagating Stargazer Lilies
Though they may be a little more temperamental than other lilies, with a little care and patience they will thrive.
Stargazer lilies reproduce more slowly than other types of lilies. They have offspring called “bulbets,” which can be replanted to create more lilies. However, If you want to grow flower bulbs, you’ll need to wait several years for the plant to generate enough bulblets.
Another method which is a faster way to clone your Stargazer lily is through propagation or by cutting off the layered leaf bases of the bulb or scales from the outer part of the stargazer and replanting them. Pick out the plumpest scales you can find. Scales that have black patches or are soft and mushy should be discarded. Immediately after removing the scales, replant the bulbs 6 to 8 inches deep and 12 inches apart in well-drained, organically rich soil. Although this method is faster, it might also take years for the plants to become large or bloom.
If you’re in a rush to see flowers, your best bet is to purchase a stargazer lily arrangement in your local flower shop.
Scent
Stargazer lilies are said to have an intensely sweet scent that can fill an entire room. But it can be too overpowering for some people, so if you’re sensitive to fragrance, it’s best to keep them away from your living space.
Varieties
Lilium oriental Stargazer: Lilium oriental ‘Stargazer’ is a type of lily known for its large, showy flowers. The petals are typically a deep red or pink, heavily speckled with brown or black spots.
Golden Stargazer: Golden stargazer lilies are a hybrid of oriental lilies and trumpet lilies. The petals are typically golden yellow and streaked with red or orange.
White Stargazer: The petals are typically white and may be streaked with green or purple. They love the sun and can be grown in warmer climates. White lilies are often used in funerals as they symbolize purity and innocence.
Gift
Stargazer lilies make an excellent gift for a variety of occasions.
- Birthdays
- Anniversaries
- Graduations
- Any other special event
Final thoughts
Stargazer lilies are indeed a sight to behold. Their large, fragrant flowers are sure to add beauty and elegance to any garden.
What are your thoughts on these lovely blooms? Let us know in the comments below.
Happy gardening!
The article Stargazer Lilies: Discover the Beauty of These Fragrant Blooms is courtesy of fiestaflowersaz.com/
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Tempe, AZ 85284
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