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Description
Lilium Starlight Express is a stunning Oriental Lily cultivar that is known for its large, fragrant, white flowers with dark pink centers. This plant is a hybrid of the well-known ‘Stargazer’ lily and has inherited its sweet fragrance. Lilium Starlight Express grows up to 4 feet tall and blooms in the summer. It is a perfect choice for cut flower arrangements or for adding a touch of elegance to your garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Lilium |
Appearance
Lilium Starlight Express has large, fragrant, white flowers with dark pink centers. The flowers can grow up to 8 inches in diameter and have a trumpet-like shape. The plant has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are around 5 inches long. It grows up to 4 feet tall and can spread up to 1-2 feet wide. The plant has a strong stem that can hold the heavy flowers upright.
Care Guide
Water: Lilium Starlight Express needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Make sure to water the plant deeply, so that the water reaches the roots.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This will help the plant grow strong and healthy.
Soil: Lilium Starlight Express prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-6.5.
Sunlight: This plant needs full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Lilium Starlight Express can be grown in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that can affect Lilium Starlight Express are aphids and lily beetles. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while lily beetles can be picked off by hand. The most common diseases that can affect this plant are lily mosaic virus and botrytis blight. These can be prevented by planting disease-free bulbs and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Lilium Starlight Express is native to Asia and can be found growing in the wild in countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. It prefers to grow in well-draining soil in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Lilium Starlight Express indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Lilium Starlight Express indoors, it is best suited for outdoor growing conditions.
Q: When is the best time to plant Lilium Starlight Express?
A: The best time to plant Lilium Starlight Express is in the fall, around September or October.
Q: Can Lilium Starlight Express be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Lilium Starlight Express can be grown in a container. Make sure the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lilium Starlight Express?
A: Lilium Starlight Express should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Lilium Stargazer
- Lilium Casa Blanca
- Lilium Regale
- Lilium Pink Perfection
References
- “Lilium Oriental ‘Starlight Express’.” White Flower Farm. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/lilium-oriental-starlight-express.
- “Lilium ‘Starlight Express’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/43712/Lilium-Starlight-Express/Details.
- “Lilium Starlight Express.” Gardenia.net. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lilium-starlight-express.
