lilium

Lilium, commonly known as lilies, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Liliaceae. It comprises around 90 to 100 species of bulbous perennials native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with a center of diversity in Asia. Plants typically produce tall, unbranched stems bearing large flowers with six tepals, six stamens, and a single pistil. Leaves are linear to lanceolate and alternately arranged.

Flowers come in a wide range of colors, often with a strong fragrance. They can be outward-facing or nodding and are adapted to attract various pollinators, including bees, moths, and birds, depending on the species. The bulbs store nutrients and are usually tunicate; the stem is largely leafless above the basal leaves in many species.

Lilium species are widely cultivated as ornamental garden plants and cut flowers. They favor well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and protection from excessive winter moisture. Propagation occurs by bulb offsets or seeds, and extensive hybridization has produced major cultivar groups such as Asiatic lilies, Oriental lilies, Trumpet (longiflorum) lilies, and Martagon lilies, among others.

Toxicity: All parts of lilies in this genus are highly toxic to cats, and ingestion can cause acute kidney injury. The poisoning risk is significant even from small amounts of plant material; other animals may be affected less severely.

Etymology: The genus name Lilium is Latin, derived from the Greek leirion or leiron meaning lily.