Hemerocallis Arctic Snow - Daylily

The 'Arctic Snow' Daylily is distinguished by a compact habit and very large flowers, which are ivory white and cream, with a throat illuminated in lemon yellow. Very floriferous and pure, it has received two awards from the American Hemerocallis Society. The mid-late flowering occurs in July and lasts for 3 weeks.

The genus Hemerocallis belongs to the family Liliaceae or Hemerocallidaceae according to classifications.  They are perennial and hardy plants with deciduous or semi-evergreen foliage. 'Arctic Snow' will reach a height of 60 cm (24in), with a spread of 80 cm (32in), its silhouette is remarkably compact, almost spreading. The flowers are larger than most daylilies, measuring between 13 and 15 cm (5 and 6in) in diameter. Individually, they last no more than a day, but they continuously renew themselves for 3 weeks from mid-July. The floral stems are strong and suitable for making bouquets, while the thick and linear foliage is deciduous in this variety. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots.

Easy to grow, these perennial plants, which are undoubtedly hardy, thrive in both sun and shade. Some varieties spread more than others, and dividing the stumps in autumn allows enthusiasts to exchange their findings. The daylily is often called the 'perfect perennial plant', due to its vibrant colours, ability to tolerate any type of environment, and also due to its lack of modesty: it exhibits a beautiful exuberance that has a stunning effect in a garden. Plant 'Arctic Snow' in generous clumps at the front of your beds. To accompany this flowering, perennial plants are perfect, but also consider summer-flowering bulbs for variety, and the graceful habit of a grass will lighten the combination. This compact cultivar is perfectly suited for container gardening to enhance a balcony or patio, requiring large pots of at least 30 cm (12in) in depth. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and decorate desserts.

Many varieties have been developed in Japan, where they are very popular. The flowers of these plants come in a wide range of colours and shapes. Over sixty thousand cultivars, mostly resulting from hybridisations by gardening enthusiasts, are listed, appreciated, and studied by international Hemerocallis societies.