perennial

Wood Lily

Lilium philadelphicum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic to cats. Also toxic to dogs and horses.

The Story

Plant Bio

Lilium philadelphicum, commonly known as the Wood Lily or Prairie Lily, is an erect, bulbous perennial featuring striking, upward-facing, cup-shaped flowers. The blooms are typically reddish-orange with dark purple spots at the base and are borne atop unbranched stems with whorled, lance-shaped leaves. Distinctive for its upward-facing flowers, a rare trait among lilies, which makes the dark, spotted centers highly visible. It is a key nectar source for swallowtail butterflies and hummingbirds. This lily does not form offsets and primarily reproduces by seed.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright orange flowers add vibrant color to gardens, attracting hummingbirds and birds.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for sustainable gardens.

Supports local pollinators and bird species, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or bulbs into well-draining soil in spring
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Stake tall stems if needed for support during bloom
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for best growth
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best flowering

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch to retain moisture
Divide in early spring
Support tall stems if needed

Don't

Overwater to prevent bulb rot ❌
Plant too deep ❌
Neglect removal of dead flowers ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border with orange accentsWildflower meadow feature

Companion Plants

Echinacea Black-eyed Susan Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wood Lily questions

What zones can Wood Lily grow in?

Wood Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wood Lily deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Wood Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Wood Lily bloom?

Wood Lily typically blooms in early to mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wood Lily need full sun?

Wood Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.