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Description
Hemerocallis Custard Candy, also known as daylily, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Hemerocallidaceae family. It is native to Asia and is widely cultivated for its attractive flowers. The plant produces clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom for one day, hence the name “daylily.” The blooms are a bright yellow color with a red-orange center and measure up to 3 inches wide. Hemerocallis Custard Candy typically grows up to 24 inches tall and has a spread of 18-24 inches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Hemerocallidaceae |
| Genus | Hemerocallis |
Appearance
Hemerocallis Custard Candy has long, narrow green leaves that grow in a clump at the base of the plant. The leaves are about 1 inch wide and up to 2 feet long. The flowers bloom on tall, sturdy stems that rise above the foliage. The blooms are a bright yellow color with a red-orange center and have a sweet fragrance. Each flower lasts for only one day, but the plant produces many blooms over the course of several weeks. Hemerocallis Custard Candy typically blooms in mid to late summer.
Care Guide
Water
Hemerocallis Custard Candy prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Feed Hemerocallis Custard Candy in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the feeding every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing after August, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Soil
Hemerocallis Custard Candy thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil is heavy or poorly drained, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Plant Hemerocallis Custard Candy in full sun to partial shade. The plant will tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer blooms in shady conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Hemerocallis Custard Candy is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hemerocallis Custard Candy is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to crown rot or leaf spot if it is grown in poorly drained soil or if the foliage is kept wet. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and make sure the soil drains well.
Habitat
Hemerocallis Custard Candy is native to Asia and is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes throughout the world. It grows best in sunny or partially shaded locations with well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Hemerocallis Custard Candy?
A: Feed Hemerocallis Custard Candy in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the feeding every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing after August, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hemerocallis Custard Candy?
A: Hemerocallis Custard Candy is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Q: How often should I water Hemerocallis Custard Candy?
A: Hemerocallis Custard Candy prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Hemerocallis Custard Candy?
A: Hemerocallis Custard Candy is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to crown rot or leaf spot if it is grown in poorly drained soil or if the foliage is kept wet. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and make sure the soil drains well.
Related Plants
- Hemerocallis ‘Stella de Oro’
- Hemerocallis ‘Pardon Me’
- Hemerocallis ‘Happy Returns’
- Hemerocallis ‘Rosy Returns’
- Hemerocallis ‘Always Afternoon’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Hemerocallis ‘Custard Candy’
- Gardening Know How: Growing Daylilies: Tips on Caring for Daylilies
- RHS: Hemerocallis ‘Custard Candy’
