Columbia Lily
lilium columbianum
Also known as: ["Tiger Lily","Columbia Tiger Lily"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its vibrant orange flowers with dark spots.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Lilium |
| Botanical Name: | Lilium columbianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, meadow, or partially shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with afternoon shade in hot climates); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide dappled shade during peak summer heat; protect from harsh winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage, ensure soil is moist but not waterlogged, and reduce watering during dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of loam, peat, and perlite; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogged soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F / 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid fertilizing when soil is dry; discontinue in late summer/early fall.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of bulbs; seeds take longer but produce more genetic diversity.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs carefully.
- Plant seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant seedlings when large enough.
Best Time: Divide bulbs in late summer after flowering; sow seeds in fall or early spring.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; bright indirect light for bulbs; consistent moisture for both.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or bulb propagation mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division; optional for seedlings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Bulb division: immediate growth; seeds: germination in 1–3 months, flowering in 2–3 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, seed trays, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs every 3–4 years; stratify seeds for better germination; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; trim leaves if they turn yellow or die back naturally.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development; trim yellowing leaves in fall.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; trim yellowing leaves; clean tools before use; avoid cutting healthy foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after flowering; before dormancy begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger or increase depth by 2–3 cm; ensure ample space for bulb growth.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years; avoid disturbing roots unnecessarily.
Checklist
Choose a well-draining pot; use fresh soil mix; plant at correct depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; reduce watering in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist, ensuring water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in dormancy; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; leaf damage or failure to emerge in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, or damage buds; prolonged cold may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure good drainage; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and stress-induced dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop during dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Extremely ToxicLilium columbianum is extremely toxic to cats, with even minor exposure capable of causing severe health issues, including acute kidney failure. The entire plant, including pollen, is hazardous to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicLilium columbianum is highly toxic to dogs, particularly due to the presence of toxic compounds that can lead to acute kidney failure. Even small amounts can be dangerous, and ingestion should be treated as a veterinary emergency.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLilium columbianum contains toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity is due to the presence of certain alkaloids and other bioactive compounds that disrupt normal physiological functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lilium columbianum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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