Contents
Description
Hemerocallis Bess Ross, also known as daylily, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Hemerocallis genus. It is a hybrid cultivar that was developed in the United States in the 1950s. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers, which bloom for one day each, but are produced in large numbers throughout the summer. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and come in shades of pink, orange, and yellow. Hemerocallis Bess Ross is easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Xanthorrhoeaceae |
| Genus | Hemerocallis |
Appearance
Hemerocallis Bess Ross grows up to 2 feet tall and wide. It has long, strap-like leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and come in shades of pink, orange, and yellow. They have a diameter of 4-6 inches and bloom for one day each, but are produced in large numbers throughout the summer. The plant is deciduous, meaning it loses its leaves in the winter.
Care Guide
Water
Hemerocallis Bess Ross requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Hemerocallis Bess Ross benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in the spring and again in mid-summer. Follow the instructions on the label for application rates.
Soil
Hemerocallis Bess Ross prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Sunlight
Hemerocallis Bess Ross prefers full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Hemerocallis Bess Ross is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hemerocallis Bess Ross is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to spider mites and thrips. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to crown rot and leaf spot, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Hemerocallis Bess Ross is native to the United States and is commonly found in gardens and landscapes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Hemerocallis Bess Ross be fertilized?
A: Hemerocallis Bess Ross should be fertilized twice a year, in the spring and mid-summer.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Hemerocallis Bess Ross?
A: Hemerocallis Bess Ross prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: Can Hemerocallis Bess Ross tolerate shade?
A: Hemerocallis Bess Ross can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hemerocallis Bess Ross?
A: Hemerocallis Bess Ross is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Related Plants
- Hemerocallis ‘Stella de Oro’
- Hemerocallis ‘Happy Returns’
- Hemerocallis ‘Pardon Me’
- Hemerocallis ‘Rosy Returns’
References
- “Hemerocallis Bess Ross.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a685.
- “Daylilies.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. Accessed May 22, 2021. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/daylilies/.
- “Hemerocallis Bess Ross.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed May 22, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/hemerocallis-bess-ross-daylily.
