Yellow Daylily
hemerocallis lilioasphodelus
Also known as: ["Fragrant Daylily","Lily Asphodel"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with fragrant, yellow flowers that bloom for a single day.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Hemerocallis |
| Botanical Name: | Hemerocallis lilioasphodelus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to moderately draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but performs best with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Remove spent flowers as they fade; cut back foliage annually in late fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or spent parts unless rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; place outdoor plants where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; adjust based on weather and soil moisture.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates winter cold and summer heat with proper care.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering in heat; protect from frost in cold climates.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; fertilize before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of clumps is the most common method; seed propagation is also possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps by cutting with a sharp knife.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water well after planting.
Best Time: Divide clumps in late summer or early fall after flowering; sow seeds in spring.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; full sun for established divisions.
Medium
Well-draining garden soil or a mix of peat and perlite for seeds; no special medium needed for division.
Hormone
Not required for division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 2–4 weeks, flowering in 2–3 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, garden shears, trowel.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; water divisions well after planting; thin seedlings as they grow.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above the next bud; cut back foliage to ground level in fall.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late fall after frost.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; cut back foliage after frost; clean tools between cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant from pot; trim roots if crowded; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Not typically needed for garden-grown plants; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand if soil is heavy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause leaf damage; severe frost may damage flower buds or stems.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; move container plants indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower bud drop, or leaf scorch; reduced flowering may occur.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply and regularly; use mulch to retain soil moisture; increase air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring and post-flowering; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply again after flowering; dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHemerocallis lilioasphodelus is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no known health risks to felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicHemerocallis lilioasphodelus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicHemerocallis lilioasphodelus, commonly known as lemon daylily, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been used in traditional cuisine and is generally safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are daylilies toxic to pets?
A: No, Hemerocallis lilioasphodelus is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How long do daylily flowers last?
A: Each flower typically lasts only one day, but the plant produces multiple blooms over several weeks.
Q: Do daylilies require much care?
A: They are relatively low maintenance, thriving in full sun to partial shade with moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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