Tiger Lily

Lilium lancifolium, the tiger lily, is an erect bulbous perennial with narrow leaves and pendant, spotted flowers. In summer, bright orange blooms and stem bulbils create a strong vertical accent and allow the plant to spread over time. ([North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lilium-lancifolium/)) ## Garden use and growing Use tiger lily in a sunny border or cutting garden where its height is welcome and its self-spreading habit can be managed. It grows in full sun or partial shade, with best flowering in full sun and moist, acidic soil. The stems reach about 2 to 6 feet, while clumps spread roughly 1 to 2 feet. ## Seasonal interest The pendant orange flowers have dark spots and attract swallowtail butterflies. Small bulbils form where leaves meet the stem; they can root when they fall, so leave room for new plants or remove bulbils before they drop. ([North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lilium-lancifolium/)) ## Maintenance Keep the soil moist during active growth and allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Check the bed for bulbils and seedlings if you want to limit spread. Tiger lily can also be grown in a container to keep its expansion localized.