Commander in Chief Lily
Lilium lancifolium 'Commander in Chief'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
42 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Large, showy orange flowers with dark spots. Strong stems that can reach a height of up to 3 feet. Unique for its striking color and large flower size, making it a standout in gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep in the fall, spacing them 8-12 inches apart.
- Tuck bulbs in a sunny spot with partial shade in hotter climates.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as shoots emerge.
- Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in a sunny location with good drainage to prevent rot and ensure healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the growing season 💧
- Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
- Support tall stems with stakes if needed
- Remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Don't plant in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil
- Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy
- Do not use high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season
- Avoid cutting back foliage prematurely
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Commander in Chief Lily questions
What zones can Commander in Chief Lily grow in?
Commander in Chief Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Commander in Chief Lily deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Commander in Chief Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Commander in Chief Lily bloom?
Commander in Chief Lily typically blooms in 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 Commander in Chief Lily need full sun?
Commander in Chief Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lilium to compare
Wood Lily
Lilium philadelphicum
Tree Lily
Lilium x hybrida 'Tree Mix'
Tiger Lily
Lilium lancifolium
Canada Lily 'Reverend Walker'
Lilium canadense 'Reverend Walker'
Stargazer Lily
Lilium lancifolium 'Stargazer'
Michigan Lily
Lilium michiganense
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Commander in Chief Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
