My two-year-old stand of Satisfaction Orienpet lilies in late July
My days as a plant snob are over. There’s room in my garden for both the brash and the understated, for flowers the size of snowflakes as well as blossoms that standout like a chorus line of bodacious beauties. A marigold deserves my respect just as much as a magnolia. That said, I’d like to introduce you to my latest petaled fancy, the Orienpet lily. A cross between an Oriental lily and a Trumpet lily, the Orienpet exudes the best qualities of both parents and then some.
The Vegas Showgirls of the flower world, Orienpet lilies are bedazzling showstoppers. After two years, mine tower at six feet and range from five to fifteen blossoms per bulb. They thrive in the Pacific Northwest and are relatively drought tolerant and easy to grow when given good drainage.
Orienpet lily “Frisco” (evidently not named by someone from the Bay Area)
When planting Orienpet (or Trumpet or Oriental) lilies, keep them close to the garden path. Your eyes and nose will thank you.
Related links:
- Online bulb suppliers: Van Engelen, Inc., BD Lilies, John Scheepers, The Lily Pad Bulb Farm
- Growing guides, articles: North American Lily Society, Hybrid Lilies as Potted Plants, New Lily Classes Grow in Availability and Popularity, Selecting Lilies for Your Garden
Ahhh….Tom, you know I love these beauties!!! What is that middle one…the sort of apricot one? I have a little spot reserved by our front walk and am looking for just the right (and fragrant) lily!
Hi Scott, that is a variety called Conca D’Or, though mine are a more muted yellow than apricot in color, see photo link.
I do have a truer apricot colored lily called Boogie Woogie and have seen a lovely dark salmon one in Montego Bay and a pinkish tint in named variety Elusive. Scott I think you need all three varieties. 😉
Tom, your lilies are stunning! I have the Frisco’s growing in the garden – their scent is heavenly. I also have bright orange lilies – not sure of their name…now after seeing yours I want more. And spring can not come too soon!
You are in Washington state? I love the exuberance of your garden and the exuberance with which you write. I really like your blog and will definitely be back. Have a great day. Blessings…Mary
Beautiful photos Tom!
I just ordered a dozen of these beauties from B&D earlier this week. A true act of faith in these wintry doldrums.
Good Man Dan, you will be swooning over these beauties in late July and enjoying their fragrance on that second floor loggia of yours.
Wow! Lovin these liles! Got to have the”Satisfaction” lily.
gorgeous lillies…..i’ll bet they smell delicious too! thanks for sharing this post at Cottage Flora Thursday’s – xoxo, tracie
I began growing Orienpet lilies last year and put in a ton last fall. I am hooked, can’t wait to see the display this year.
Eileen
What a beauty! Love the lilies, love the colors, love everything in your garden.
You might want to check out The Lily Garden (www.thelilygarden.com), both a breeder and a grower, specializing in Orienpets. Judith Freeman is he head honcho, and she’s located in Vancouver, WA. I have purchased a number of lilies from her and am so far quite satisfied.
Thanks Chris, great tip; I’ll check it out!