Madonna Lily

(Lilium candidum)

Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lilium candidum, commonly known as Madonna Lily, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a range of habitats in the Eastern Mediterranean and Balkans, including grasslands, scrublands, and open woodlands. This species is notable for its strikingly beautiful flowers and historical significance, having been cultivated since at least the Minoan period. The Madonna Lily typically reaches a height of 1.2 meters (3 ft 11 in) and forms a basal rosette of leaves during the winter, which die back the following summer. In late spring, a leafy floral stem emerges, culminating in a cluster of several sweetly scented, pure white flowers in the summer, each with a yellow throat. The flowers are highly fragrant and considered very showy.

The Madonna Lily is valued for its elegant, fragrant blooms and is often used in borders, cottage gardens, and as a cut flower. It requires full sun to light shade and prefers well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil. While it can tolerate a range of water conditions, it does best with consistent moisture during the growing season. It is important to note that all parts of the plant are highly toxic to cats, and ingestion can be fatal. Additionally, the Madonna Lily can be susceptible to lily beetle infestations and various fungal diseases, such as botrytis blight. Gardeners should be vigilant and take preventive measures to protect these plants.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, scrublands, and open woodlands in the Eastern Mediterranean and Balkans

Other Names

Common Names: White Lily, Weiße Lilie, Madonnen-Lilie, Witte Lelie, Madonnalilja, Lilija Belaja, Açucena-Branca, Lírio-Branco

Scientific Names: , Lilium candidum, Lilium album, Lilium candidum var. salonikae, Lilium candidum var. peregrinum, Lilium striatum, Lilium candidum f. peregrinum, Lilium candidum f. striatum, Lilium candidum subsp. peregrinum, Lilium candidum var. aureomarginatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Lilium candidum L.