Lily

Lilium candidum

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil potting compost, such as John Innes no2
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July
• Flower colour: pure white
• Other features: excellent cut-flowers
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Sprays of sweetly scented trumpet-shaped, pure white flowers are produced in midsummer. This lily has been grown since the days of ancient Crete, though few plants are found in the wild. In this country, they were traditionally grown in cottage gardens where they flourished. This was partly because they were so well fed and as they were tucked in amongst other plants which shaded them at the base. They are worth taking that little bit of extra care choosing the right spot and feeding them well as they will reward you with deliciously scented, white flowers.
  
  The RSPCA have recently reported that all parts of lilies can be fatal to cats, including the flower, leaves and pollen. For more information, click here.
  
  
• Garden care: Bulbs are best planted in autumn as their foliage generally emerges much earlier than other lilies. They also prefer to be quite close to the surface of the soil, so plant them about 5-10cm deep and 15cm apart. Stake with ring stakes or bamboo canes in spring before the flowers appear. Deadhead the faded blooms and cut the stems back to ground level at the end of autumn.