Lilium Bellville - Lily

The Oriental Lily hybrid 'Bellville' is a variety with single flowers that belongs to the group of oriental lilies. It offers large satin flowers in a rich canary yellow shade. This plant blooms at the end of July/beginning of August and develops delicately fragrant flowers on strong stems. Robust, this oriental lily blooms faithfully in very well-drained and limestone-free soil in a border, in a pot, or even in a large rockery.

The genus Lilium belongs to the lily family, its representatives are bulbous plants whose deciduous vegetation disappears in winter. In spring, leafy stems emerge from the ground, rising up to form a narrow and very vertical clump. 'Bellville' is a horticultural hybrid obtained by cross-breeding various species originating from the Far East. This plant reaches approximately 1.10 m to 1.20 m in height when in flower, and the clump spreads indefinitely over time, with bulbs producing bulblets through vegetative multiplication. At the end of July, beginning of August, flowering umbels appear, directed outwards, generously on display. They are in the shape of very wide trumpets, measuring up to 20 cm in diameter, and are very pleasantly fragrant. The stems are strong, covered with alternate, dark green, shiny, lanceolate leaves.

Oriental lilies require specific conditions to thrive, a bit more demanding than those of Asian lilies. They appreciate a humus-rich, well-drained, non-limestone soil, as excess moisture in winter can harm the bulbs. In acidic soil, their colours become more intense. Partial shade, especially in the afternoon, helps extend flowering and preserve the brightness of the flowers. For an elegant border, Lilium 'Bellville' pairs well with yellow or white lilies, gladioli, or daylilies. Grasses and perennials around the lily help shade the ground and stabilize the stems against the elements. Oriental lilies are also cultivated at the edge of a copse, surrounded by small bushes like rhododendrons or azaleas, and are perfect for creating beautiful bouquets.