Hemerocallis Martha Lee - Daylily

The Daylily or Hemerocallis 'Martha Lee' is a compact, late and original variety, with scented flowers combining hot salmon pink and a bright orange, marked with a soft cream to ochre midline, centred on a small chartreuse throat. The rounded and fleshy flower is of a good size, considering the plant's stature. This so-called 'border' variety is a perennial of choice, worry-free and good company, and easy to acclimate in all gardens. It is ideal for livening up borders and pots when summer blooms are fading.

The genus Hemerocallis belongs to the Liliaceae family. They are  perennial and hardy plants whose foliage is deciduous, sometimes semi-evergreen. The tetraploid variety 'Martha Lee', obtained in 1974, grows in a reasonably dense clump that will reach 40-45 cm (16-18in) in height, with a relative spread of 40 cm (16in); daylilies tend to spread a little when they like the soil. The flowers, 12-13 cm (5in) wide, are gracefully shaped, pleasantly scented, and composed of thick, broad petals slightly recurved towards the back. Each flower, with its somewhat wavy and iridescent texture, lasts no more than a day, but the flowering repeats continuously over a beautiful period between July and August. The short stems are sturdy and adorned with numerous buds. The foliage is bright green, shiny, linear, and semi-evergreen. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots that tolerate dry soils but are more opulent and floriferous in moist soil.

Very easy to grow, these plants thrive equally well in shade as in the sun. Their colours will be brighter in partial shade and withstand summer heat better. Some can be invasive, so do not hesitate to divide the clumps every four or five years, preferably in autumn, after flowering. The daylily is often called "the perfect perennial" because of its vibrant colours and ability to tolerate any environment. Due to its lack of modesty, it has a beautiful exuberance that goes well with other perennials. Plant them in generous clumps in the foreground or background of your borders or near bushes and trees with which they do not fear competition. All summer bulb flowers can be planted alongside daylilies. 'Martha Lee' will fit perfectly into a romantic garden or patio, among bellflowers, paniculate baby's breath, and cornflowers. Large pots of at least 30 cm (12in) deep on a balcony or terrace should be provided, and dwarf varieties should be preferred. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and decorate desserts.