Lilium 'Stargazer'

The stargazer lily is a breathtaking flower with bold, star-shaped blooms in vibrant shades of pink, accented by white edges and dark speckles. Its large, upward-facing petals create a stunning display, while its sweet, spicy fragrance fills the air. With glossy green leaves and tall stems, this striking lily is a showstopper in any garden or floral arrangement, symbolizing beauty and elegance.

Zones 4 - 9

Key Features:

• Appearance: The stargazer lily has large, showy flowers that often bloom in late summer or early fall. Each flower typically features six petals arranged in a star-like formation, which gives the flower its "stargazer" name. The petals are usually a rich, intense pink or red, with white edges, and sometimes dotted with dark specks, particularly near the center.

• Petals: The petals have a slightly curled, reflexed shape, which means they bend backward toward the stem, enhancing the star-like appearance of the flower. The interior of the petals is often a lighter pink, fading toward white at the edges, and speckled with darker red or purple spots.

• Height and Size: Stargazer lilies are relatively tall, growing between 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) tall. The individual flowers can be as large as 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) in diameter, making them quite eye-catching in gardens and floral arrangements.

• Fragrance: The scent of the stargazer lily is one of its most distinctive features. It has a strong, sweet, and spicy fragrance that can fill an entire room. While the scent is beloved by many, it can be overpowering for some, especially when multiple blooms are in close proximity.

• Leaves and Stems: The stargazer lily’s long, slender stems are often dark green and can sometimes have a slight reddish tint near the base. The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged alternately along the stem. They are typically a dark green, smooth, and glossy, providing a clean contrast to the vivid flowers.

• Pollination: The flowers have a prominent central pistil with large, showy anthers that are filled with pollen. These anthers are often visible and may release a noticeable amount of pollen, which is another characteristic of lilies in general. The stargazer lily is pollinated by bees and other insects, though some varieties are also self-pollinating.

• Varieties and Color: While the classic stargazer lily is known for its striking pink and white colors, newer cultivars come in different color variations, such as white, orange, and red, offering a broader range of aesthetic choices.

Growing Conditions:

• Soil: Stargazer lilies thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels but are adaptable to a variety of soil types.

• Light: These lilies need full sun or partial shade for the best growth and flowering. They generally require about 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily to reach their full potential.

• Watering: While stargazer lilies enjoy regular watering, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet, as too much water can lead to bulb rot.

• Temperature: These lilies grow best in moderate to warm climates, thriving in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). They are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Care and Maintenance:

• Pruning: Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can help maintain the plant’s appearance and promote the growth of new blooms.
• Fertilization: Stargazer lilies benefit from being fed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, which promotes healthy growth.
• Pests: While stargazer lilies are generally hardy, they can attract aphids, spider mites, and lily beetles. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or natural remedies can help keep pests at bay.