Lilium Saronno - Lily

The 'Saronno' Oriental Hybrid Lily is a variety that belongs to the group of oriental lilies. Its large single flowers are white, with a slight bluish reflection and a heart infused with yellow-green. Lightly scented, this elegant lily adapts perfectly to borders, pots, or rockeries, provided that the soil is well-drained and free of limestone. Robust, it faithfully blooms every year, bringing a refined touch to garden compositions.

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 and forming a narrow and very vertical clump. 'Saronno' is a horticultural hybrid of the oriental lilies group or "OT", obtained by cross-breeding various species originating from the Far East. This plant reaches approximately 1.30 m to 1.40 m in height when in flower, and the clump spreads without a theoretical limit over time, with the bulbs producing bulblets through vegetative multiplication. In late July, early August, appear umbels of flowers, directed outwards and upwards, well displayed. They are in the form of very wide trumpets, measuring up to 20 cm in diameter, and are very pleasantly scented. The stems are strong, covered with alternate, dark green, shiny, lanceolate leaves.

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