How to Grow Aurelian Hybrid Mix
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Aurelian Hybrid Mix
Lilium × aurelian hybrids
flowerAurelian Hybrid lilies are large, fragrant trumpet or bowl-shaped flowers that result from crosses between Asiatic and Oriental lily species. These stunning cut flowers typically grow 4-6 feet tall and produce multiple blooms per stem, offering dramatic garden displays and exceptional vase life.
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Example Aurelian Hybrid Mix timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Aurelian Hybrid Mix
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Aurelian Hybrid Mix blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Aurelian Hybrid Mix dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 5-8
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Bulb Dormancy & Sprouting
3-4 weeksDormant bulbs begin sending up shoots in spring. Initial shoots are pale with tightly rolled leaves.
Ensure bulbs had adequate cold period (8-12 weeks below 45°F). Avoid disturbing emerging shoots. Remove any rotted bulb material.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksStems elongate rapidly, developing lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls. Plant reaches 2-3 feet with visible flower buds forming at the top.
Water consistently and deeply. Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or lily-specific formula every 3-4 weeks. Stake tall varieties for support. Remove any diseased leaves immediately.
Bud Development
2-3 weeksLarge flower buds appear at stem tips, arranged in spirals or clusters. Buds swell and change color as they prepare to open.
Maintain consistent moisture. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; switch to higher phosphorus formula (lower first number) to promote blooming. Protect from strong winds.
Flowering
3-4 weeksFlowers open sequentially over 2-3 weeks, revealing large trumpet or bowl-shaped blooms in white, yellow, gold, pink, or orange, often with darker throats or stripes. Intense fragrance fills the air.
Remove stamens with pollen if desired (extends vase life and prevents staining). Deadhead spent flowers but leave stem intact. Continue watering at soil level. Support heavy flower clusters with soft ties.
Senescence & Dormancy
6-8 weeksFlowers fade and drop. Leaves gradually yellow and brown. Stem dries out completely as energy returns to the bulb.
Do NOT cut back foliage until completely brown (usually 4-6 weeks after flowering ends). Continue watering until foliage dies. Apply high-potassium fertilizer to support bulb ripening. Cut back dead stems and store mulch.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick adults and crush orange egg clusters on leaf undersides. Use neem oil or spinosad spray in early morning or late evening. Remove and destroy affected leaves.
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Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity by regular misting (avoid foliage). Use miticide or neem oil spray if severe. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Ensure excellent air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove infected petals or flowers. Apply fungicide (copper or sulfur-based) if needed. Do not compost diseased material.
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No cure; remove and destroy affected plants. Control aphid vectors with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Plant virus-resistant varieties.
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinarySome Aurelian lily petals are edible and can garnish salads, desserts, or cocktails. Always ensure lilies were grown without systemic pesticides and verify the specific cultivar is food-safe before consuming. [source]
Premium cut flowers and arrangements
HouseholdAurelian hybrids are among the most prized cut flowers for wedding bouquets, formal arrangements, and high-end floral design. Their large size, fragrance, and long vase life make them ideal for special occasions. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftPetals and seed pods can be dried for pressed flower crafts, arrangements, or botanical art projects. Dry flowers upside-down in bundles in a cool, dark space. [source]
Pollinator garden attraction
WildlifeThe large fragrant blooms attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making Aurelian lilies valuable for supporting pollinator populations in the garden. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn Traditional Chinese Medicine, lily bulbs (bahe) are used for their cooling and moistening properties. However, ornamental hybrids are not typically used medicinally—species lilies or cultivated medicinal varieties should be used instead. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut stems in early morning when the first bloom is open but others still have some color in buds. Use sharp scissors or pruners and cut at a 45° angle. Strip lower leaves off the cut portion (2-3 inches from bottom). Change vase water every 2-3 days. Remove stamens to prevent pollen stains on petals and extend vase life to 2-3 weeks. In the garden, deadhead spent flowers but leave stems intact until foliage dies completely.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Aurelian hybrids were first developed in the 1960s by Oregon lily breeder Jan de Graaff, who crossed Asiatic lilies with trumpet and Chinese lily species to create the modern hybrids we grow today.
- 🌱 The sweet fragrance of Aurelian lilies is strongest in late afternoon and evening, often intensifying on warmer days. A single stem can perfume an entire room.
- 🌱 Aurelian lily bulbs can produce "bulbils" along the stem (in the leaf axils) or underground stolons that develop into new flowering bulbs, allowing gardeners to propagate their favorite varieties naturally.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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