Daylily

Also known as: Daylily, Tawny daylily, Ditch lily

Hemerocallis, commonly known as daylilies, are clump-forming herbaceous perennials with arching, strap-shaped leaves. They produce showy, funnel-shaped flowers in a wide range of colors, typically borne on tall scapes above the foliage. Each flower lasts only one day, but plants produce successive blooms over several weeks. The genus offers excellent ornamental value for borders and mass plantings.

Scientific classification

Species: Daylily (Hemerocallis spp.)
Genus: Information to be completed
Family: Asphodelaceae

All parts are toxic to cats if ingested; may cause vomiting and kidney failure. Non-toxic to humans and dogs in small amounts.
Toxicity: Herbaceous Perennial
Plant type: 0.3 - 1.2 metres
Height: 0.3 - 0.6 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Clump forming
Habit: Summer
Season of interest: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Daylily pictures

Distribution of Daylily

Distribution map

Eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Russia)

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

All parts are toxic to cats if ingested; may cause vomiting and kidney failure. Non-toxic to humans and dogs in small amounts.

Quick identification of Daylily

Information to be completed

Daylily care guide

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth, reduce watering in winter.
Watering: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth, reduce watering in winter.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Pruning

Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage reblooming. Cut back dead foliage in late autumn or early spring.

Propagation

Divide clumps in early spring or after flowering in autumn. Each division should have at least two to three fans of leaves and healthy roots. Replant at the same depth and water well. Seeds can be sown in spring, but cultivars may not come true.

Growing

Cultivate daylilies in full sun to partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. They tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again after flowering. Mulch in autumn to protect roots in cold climates. Divide clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor.

More growing and care information →