Hemerocallis Femme Osage - Daylily

The Hemerocallis or Hemerocallis Femme Osage produces large, fleshy flowers that are quite round and perfectly formed, reminiscent of delicate yellow-orange shades and thick substance of mother-of-pearl from certain shells found on islands. Each petal, gracefully undulating at the edges, is crossed by an almost white midline that plunges into a small green throat. This variety also offers a long midseason flowering for renewed enjoyment, and its semi-evergreen foliage remains ornamental even outside of the flowering period. Plenty of reasons to adopt it without delay!

The genus Hemerocallis belongs to the Liliaceae family. They are  hardy perennial plants with deciduous, sometimes semi-evergreen foliage. The 'Femme Odage' variety, introduced to the market in 1982, is a high-quality plant widely used in hybridization and has produced over 57 cultivars. The plant grows in a rounded clump that reaches 60 cm (24in) in height, with a relative spread of 40 cm (16in). Hemerocallis tend to spread a bit when they like the terrain. The flowers are good-sized, with six well-arranged petals measuring approximately 16.5 cm (7in) in diameter. The petals and sepals, wide in this variety, are both thick and slightly iridescent, delicately wavy and lanceolate, with undulating edges. Each flower, excellent in terms of durability for a hemerocallis, lasts no longer than a day. Still, the flowering continuously repeats for 4 to 5 weeks between June and August, depending on the climate. The stems are robust and adorned with numerous buds. The foliage is linear and semi-evergreen. Hemerocallis are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots that tolerate dry soils but are more opulent and floriferous in moist soil.

These plants are straightforward to grow and thrive in both shade and sun. Some can be invasive, so don't hesitate to divide the clumps every four or five years, preferably in autumn, after flowering. Hemerocallis is often called "the perfect perennial plant" because of its vibrant colours and its ability to tolerate any environment, but also due to its lack of modesty, as it exudes a beautiful exuberance that complements other perennials well. Plant them in generous clumps in the background of your flowerbeds. All summer bulb flowers can be planted alongside Hemerocallis. 'Femme Osage' will be highlighted in a large flowerbed of blue perennials (Anchusa, campanulas) or annuals (Nigellas, Ammi visnaga), combined with grasses, beautiful foliage such as fennel or alchemilla, and wildflowers like ornamental carrots, asphodels, and chamomile, which won't overshadow the beauty of its flowers. Large pots of at least 30 cm (12in) deep on a balcony or terrace should be used, choosing from among the dwarf varieties. The flowers are edible: they liven up salads and decorate desserts.