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Description
Lilium Robert Swanson, also known as the Robert Swanson lily, is a hybrid lily cultivar that was bred by Leslie Woodriff in the 1960s. It is a tall, elegant lily with large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers are usually white or cream-colored with deep maroon speckles and a sweet fragrance. This lily is a popular choice for cut flower arrangements and garden borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Lilium |
Appearance
Lilium Robert Swanson can grow up to 6 feet tall and has long, lance-shaped leaves that grow in a whorled pattern around the stem. The flowers are large and trumpet-shaped, measuring up to 8 inches in diameter. They are usually white or cream-colored with deep maroon speckles, but some cultivars may have pink or yellow hues. The flowers are borne on tall, sturdy stems and have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators.
Care Guide
To care for Lilium Robert Swanson, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, and sunlight. This lily prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also needs full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.Water Lilium Robert Swanson regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lilium Robert Swanson is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Red lily beetle: These bright red beetles can defoliate the plant and damage the flowers.- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and flowers, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.- Gray mold: This fungal disease can cause the flowers and leaves to rot and turn brown.To prevent these problems, inspect the plant regularly and remove any affected leaves or flowers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests, and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Habitat
Lilium Robert Swanson is native to North America and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. This lily is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and is used in cut flower arrangements.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Lilium Robert Swanson?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lilium Robert Swanson?
A: Lilium Robert Swanson is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to Lilium Robert Swanson?
A: Lilium Robert Swanson is susceptible to red lily beetle, aphids, and gray mold.
Q: What is the best soil for Lilium Robert Swanson?
A: Lilium Robert Swanson prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
Other lilies that are related to Lilium Robert Swanson include:- Lilium ‘Stargazer’- Lilium ‘Casa Blanca’- Lilium ‘Black Beauty’- Lilium ‘Muscadet’- Lilium ‘Regale’
References
– American Horticultural Society. (2021). A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants. DK Publishing.- Royal Horticultural Society. (2021). Lilium Robert Swanson. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/308154/Lilium-Robert-Swanson/Details.
