Lis oriental Big Smile - Lily

The Lily 'Big Smile' is a spectacular cultivar belonging to the group of oriental lilies. Its flower is a true natural work of art, with petals of pure white crossed by a crimson feather. Fine spots of dark reddish-purple color, elegantly scattered, enhance this sophisticated beauty. With its majestic appearance and fragrance, this lily captivates the senses, both in borders and in vases. Hardy, it faithfully reblooms in very well-drained non-calcareous soil.

The genus Lilium belongs to the family of lilies, its representatives being bulbous plants whose deciduous vegetation disappears in winter. The Lilium 'Big Smile' is a horticultural creation dating back to 2018. Oriental hybrids have been created from Asian varieties such as Lilium auratum and Lilium speciosum, originating from Japan and eastern Asia. This 'Big Smile' cultivar is known for its upright habit and tall, sturdy stems, covered with dark green foliage. The plant can reach up to 1.20 m in height and its impressive flowers measure between 15 and 20 cm in diameter. The flowering period extends from July to August, for 2 to 3 weeks, each stem bearing several flowers that exhale a heady fragrance. The vegetation of this lily emerges from the ground in spring. It consists of leafy stems that rise and form a narrow and very vertical clump. The stems are strong, covered with alternate, dark green, shiny, narrow, lanceolate leaves.

Oriental lilies are a bit trickier to grow than Asian lilies if the conditions are not met. They require a rich humus soil that is well-drained. Any soil that retains winter moisture is harmful to the bulbs. They do not appreciate calcareous soils, and in acidic soil, the colors are more intense. Exposure to partial shade, especially in the afternoon, helps to prolong the duration and preserve the brightness of the flowers.

To showcase the Lily 'Big Smile' in your garden, pair it with plants with white, pink, and purple flowers. Opt for 'Casablanca', a pure white oriental lily and 'Bellamonte', a lily with soft pink flowers. In spring, the Anemone de Caen 'Sylphide' will bring a bright and luminous pink that catches the eye. Add the Phlox paniculata 'David', with white fragrant flowers, which will extend the summer flowering season while attracting pollinators. Finally, the martagon lily 'Claude Shride' with its speckled purple flowers will add an original and sophisticated touch to the ensemble. Plant this 'Big Smile' lily in groups of 3 to 5 bulbs for a spectacular mass effect.