Eremurus isabellinus Pinokkio - Foxtail Lily

Eremurus x isabellinus 'Pinokkio' is a perennial plant with a flamboyant tuberous root. In summer, it produces long spikes resembling glowing torches, covered in hundreds of small pinkish-orange buds that open into intense orange star-shaped flowers, emerging from a tuft of ribbon-like foliage. This compact variety will withstand the wind better and easily integrate into perennial beds. Vigorous and spectacular, this highly sculptural plant adapts to all styles of gardens. It prefers sun, and deep, well-drained soil. It dislikes wet soil in winter and strong winds.

Native to the cold high plains of Asia, 'Pinokkio' is a majestic plant of hybrid origin, reaching a height of no more than 90cm (35in) and a width of 40cm (16in). In their native regions, these very hardy plants survive winter thanks to the protection of a thick blanket of snow. The bulb, formed by large fleshy roots surrounding a bud, resembles an octopus. This tuberous stump produces a rosette of luxuriant ribbon-like leaves, reaching up to 40cm (16in) in height. The leaves are deciduous and wither as the first flower spikes emerge in June-July. The star-shaped flowers bloom from bottom to top, creating a flowering period that lasts for several weeks. This variety has a relatively compact habit, which enables it to better withstand the wind.

The impressive flowering of Eremurus 'Pinokkio' lights up the garden with fantastic torches. It will find its place in perennial beds, which have the advantage of decorating its bare base when it is in full bloom. It can be planted in groups, alongside acanthus or daylilies, clary sages or meadowsweet, delphiniums, and fennel, or in front of the purple foliage of Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona', Pennisetum 'Purple Baron', or Actaea simplex Atropurpurea Group to create a colourful scene. However, care must be taken not to plant it too densely, as this plant does not appreciate root competition. It can also be planted in a large container on a patio or in a small garden, accompanied by a pretty ground cover that will not suffocate it, such as aubrieta or creeping bugle.