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Wild About Flowers

Lilium philadelphicum - Wood Lily

Lilium philadelphicum - Wood Lily

$8.00 CAD
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Wood Lily is a striking perennial with vibrant, upward-facing orange flowers, accented by dark spots near the center. Its bold blooms rise on sturdy, unbranched stems lined with whorled, lance-shaped leaves, creating a dramatic presence in the landscape. Blooming in mid-summer, this eye-catching lily provides an important nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees. A slow-growing species, it takes 5 to 7 years to bloom from seed, and in garden settings, it should be well-marked to prevent accidental disturbance.

Wood Lilies adds color and elegance to meadows, open woodlands, and prairie plantings. While slow to establish and begin flowering, it rewards patient gardeners with stunning floral displays and a natural beauty that stands out in both wild landscapes and urban gardens. Its foliage may be browsed occasionally, particularly by deer or rodents, but mature plants often persist due to the protection offered by surrounding vegetation.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 10

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Well Drained
  • Loam
  • Sandy
  • Gravelly

Height

  • Under 12"
  • 12" - 24"

Width

  • Under 6"

Bloom Colour

  • Orange

Month of Bloom

  • June
  • July

Vigorousness

  • Very Slow

Deer Resistance

  • Moderate

Features

  • Birds
  • Bees
  • Attractive Seed Heads
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties
  • Edible Parts

Chinook Exposure

  • Fully Exposed

Distribution Info

Lilium philadelphicum is native from BC, to NL in Canada and occurs across the northern and central US. It thrives in open woodlands, meadows, and roadsides in the prairies, foothills, montane.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Lilium philadelphicum bulbs are edible, traditionally harvested and cooked by Indigenous groups. With a mildly sweet, starchy flavor, they were boiled or roasted as a carbohydrate source. Medicinally, crushed bulbs were applied to cuts, bruises, and skin irritations to promote wound healing, while infusions of bulbs or leaves were used to treat coughs and lung ailments.

The plant is not toxic to humans, but wild harvesting can threaten native populations, so cultivation is preferred. However, all parts of the plant—including pollen and even water from a vase containing lilies—are highly toxic to cats, potentially causing acute kidney failure if ingested.