Hemerocallis Starling - Daylily

Hemerocallis or Hemerocallis 'Starling' bears some of the darkest flowers in the genus. They display a deep burgundy-red colour, nuanced with brown, marked with an almost black halo around a yellow-orange heart. These shades are enhanced by the silky and thick texture of its petals, animated with lighter shades and reflections along the edges. This variety with theatrical allure undoubtedly deserves to be showcased among pastel flowers or grasses, not far from a pathway.

The Hemerocallis genus belongs to the Liliaceae family. They are hardy perennial plants with deciduous and sometimes semi-evergreen foliage. The 'Starling' variety grows fairly quickly, forming a dense clump that will reach 70 cm (28 in) in height, with a relative spread of 60 cm (24 in). Hemerocallis tend to spread a little when they like the terrain. The flowers, large and very open, measure about 15 cm (6 in) in diameter. The petals in this variety are thick and triangular, with a texture that reflects light very well and plays with colours. Each flower lasts no more than a day, but the flowering renews continuously over a beautiful period between June and July. The linear and abundant foliage is deciduous. Hemerocallis are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots, which tolerate dry soils, but are more opulent and more floriferous in fresh soil.

Very easy to grow, these plants thrive in both shade and sun. Some of them can be a little invasive, so do not 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 type of environment, but also due to its lack of modesty: it is beautifully exuberant and blends well with other perennials. Plant them in generous clumps in the background of your flower beds. All summer bulb flowers can be planted alongside Hemerocallis. 'Starling' will fit perfectly in the setting of a contemporary garden, with small grasses like Stipa tenuifolia, white Hemerocallis ('Gentle Shepherd') or foliage plants like fennels by its side. On a balcony or terrace, large pots of at least 30 cm (12 in) deep are recommended, and you should choose dwarf varieties. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and garnish desserts.