Hemerocallis Skiatook Cardinal - Daylily

Hemerocallis Skiatook Cardinal, or Daylily, is a variety of the Spider type, which means its flowers are composed of long narrow petals, forming very large stars when they are in bloom. Their bright red colour is enhanced by large yellow median areas plunging towards a throat of the same yellow colour. The thin and slightly twisted petals accentuate the personality of the flower. The flowering period is long, in the middle of the season. It is a problem-free perennial and full of energy, easy to grow in an ordinary, rather heavy and fertile soil.

The Hemerocallis genus belongs to the Liliaceae family. These are perennial and hardy plants whose foliage is deciduous or semi-evergreen. 'Skiatook Cardinal' is a diploid horticultural creation, dating back to 1960. The plant will reach about 70 cm (28 in) in height, with a spread of at least 50 cm (20 in). The foliage, of a beautiful bright green colour, is thick, linear and deciduous, forming a generously hairy clump from which sturdy floral stems filled with flower buds emerge. Individually, the flowers last no more than a day, but they continuously renew themselves over a beautiful period between June and August. The corollas measure over 15 cm (6 in) in diameter. Hemerocallis are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots.

Very easy to grow, these perennials thrive in both shade and sun. Some of them can be a bit invasive, so do not hesitate to divide the clumps every four or five years, after flowering in autumn. Hemerocallis is often called "the perfect perennial plant", because of its vibrant colours and its ability to tolerate any type of environment, but also due to its lack of modesty: it displays a beautiful exuberance that goes well with other perennials. Plant 'Skiatook Cardinal' in your borders or in large pots for the terrace; a container of at least 30 cm (12 in) deep is required. To accompany your Hemerocallis, consider summer-flowering bulbs and the supple habit of grasses to lighten your compositions. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and garnish 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 60,000 cultivars, resulting mostly from hybridisations by gardening enthusiasts, are listed, appreciated, and studied by international Hemerocallis societies.