daylily

Daylily refers to any plant in the genus Hemerocallis, a group of herbaceous perennials in the order Asparagales. Although commonly called lilies, daylilies belong to Hemerocallis and are not true lilies (Lilium). The genus comprises numerous species and thousands of cultivars.

Daylilies grow as clumps of grassy, evergreen to deciduous leaves and produce tall flowering stalks, each bearing multiple trumpet-shaped blossoms. A single blossom typically remains open for about a day, hence the name, but many cultivars produce continuous bloom over weeks or months.

Native to Asia, daylilies are widely cultivated in temperate regions and have naturalized in many areas. They favor full sun and well-drained soil, though they tolerate a range of conditions once established.

They are among the most problem-free perennials. They require regular moisture during establishment and benefit from annual division every three to four years to maintain vigor. Propagation is usually by division of clumps in spring or fall. They are relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefit from consistent moisture in hot summers.

Pests and diseases are generally manageable. Common issues include daylily rust and leaf streak, and aphids or thrips may appear. Most varieties are hardy and resistant to many pests. Daylilies are widely used in borders, rock gardens, and mixed perennial beds for their foliage and abundant flowers, and some cultivars rebloom under certain conditions.

In some cuisines, young buds and flowers are edible after proper preparation. As with all ornamental lilies, handling should be cautious for those with allergies, and consumption should be limited to known edible cultivars.