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Description
Lilium African Queen, also known as African Queen Lily or Trumpet Lily, is a long-stemmed perennial herb that belongs to the lily family. It is a hybrid variety that was created by crossing Lilium regale with Lilium speciosum. This hybrid lily is known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are fragrant and come in shades of pink, white, and yellow. Lilium African Queen is a popular choice for cut flowers and garden display due to its stunning appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Lilium |
Appearance
Lilium African Queen can reach a height of up to 5 feet and produces a single stem with multiple large flowers at the top. The flowers can be up to 12 inches in diameter and have a distinct trumpet shape. They are typically a soft pink color, but can also be white or yellow. The flowers have a sweet, pleasant fragrance that is sure to delight garden visitors. The leaves are long and narrow, and are arranged in a spiral around the stem. They are a dark green color and can grow up to 9 inches in length.
Care Guide
To keep Lilium African Queen healthy and thriving, it is important to provide proper care. Here are some tips to keep in mind:- Water: Lilium African Queen prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Lilium African Queen prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0-6.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: Lilium African Queen thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is important to protect the plant from strong winds, as the stems can be fragile.- Hardiness Zones: Lilium African Queen is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Lilium African Queen is generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are a few to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can be found on the leaves and flowers, and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Red Lily Beetles: These bright red beetles can cause significant damage to the leaves and flowers. Handpick and dispose of them, or use an insecticide.- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and flowers, and can eventually cause the plant to wilt and die. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Lilium African Queen is native to Asia, but can be grown in a wide range of climates. It prefers cool temperatures and can be grown in USDA Zones 5-9. It thrives in well-draining soil and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Lilium African Queen can be grown in containers or in the garden, and is a great choice for cut flowers or garden display.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Lilium African Queen?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: What kind of soil does Lilium African Queen prefer?
A: Lilium African Queen prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0-6.5 is ideal.
Q: What are some common pests of Lilium African Queen?
A: Aphids and Red Lily Beetles are two common pests that can affect Lilium African Queen.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lilium African Queen?
A: Lilium African Queen is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Related Plants
– Lilium regale- Lilium speciosum- Lilium longiflorum- Lilium lancifolium- Lilium formosanum
References
– “Lilium African Queen” by The Old Farmer’s Almanac- “Growing Lilies: How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Lily Flowers” by Almanac Staff- “Trumpet Lily (Lilium African Queen)” by Gardenia- “Lilium African Queen” by White Flower Farm- “Lilium African Queen” by High Country Gardens
