How to Grow Stargazer Lily
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Stargazer Lily
Lilium 'Stargazer'
flowerStargazer is a hybrid Oriental lily known for its stunning deep pink to red flowers with white edges and prominent dark red stamens. The large, fragrant blooms face upward (hence the name), creating a dramatic display in gardens and cut flower arrangements. This cultivar is one of the most popular lilies for both home gardeners and florists.
When should you plant Stargazer Lily in your zone?
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Example Stargazer Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Stargazer Lily
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 Stargazer Lily blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Stargazer Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Dormancy/Planting
Bulb storage until plantingBulb is dormant after digging. Plant in fall or early spring when soil is workable. Bulb has no visible sprouts.
Plant bulbs in well-prepared soil with excellent drainage. Include bone meal or bulb fertilizer in planting hole. Keep bulbs cool and dry before planting.
Sprouting & Early Growth
3-4 weeksGreen shoots emerge from soil, typically 2-4 weeks after spring planting. Stems grow rapidly, developing narrow green leaves along the length.
Water regularly as growth begins. Apply balanced fertilizer when shoots are 3-4 inches tall. Provide support stakes if needed for taller varieties. Remove any old bulb skin debris.
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksStems reach full height (24-36 inches for Stargazer). Buds form at the apex, starting as tight green clusters that gradually swell.
Continue regular watering and fertilize with phosphorus-rich formula to promote blooming. Apply stake or tomato cage for support. Mulch base to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Flowering
2-4 weeksLarge, fragrant flowers bloom sequentially from bottom to top of the flower cluster. Stargazer blooms are deep pink-red with white edges and prominent red stamens, facing upward.
Provide consistent moisture. Remove stamens if using as cut flowers (prevents staining). Deadhead spent blooms to encourage lower flowers to open. Stake heavily if needed to prevent stem breakage from heavy flowers.
Post-Bloom & Decline
4-6 weeksFlowers fade and drop petals. Seed pods may form if flowers are not deadheaded. Stem and leaves remain green.
Remove seed pods to direct energy to bulb development. Leave foliage intact until it yellows naturally (typically 6 weeks post-bloom). Continue watering and fertilizing with balanced formula to replenish bulb reserves. Do not cut down stems prematurely.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick adults and crush egg clusters on undersides of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Remove any infested leaves.
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Improve air circulation. Remove infected foliage immediately. Avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicide if severe. Reduce humidity around plants.
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No cure; remove and destroy infected plants. Control aphids which transmit virus. Plant virus-free bulbs from reputable sources.
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Increase humidity by misting. Spray with water to dislodge. Use miticide if severe. Encourage predatory mites.
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Remove by hand in early morning. Set beer traps. Apply diatomaceous earth around base. Remove plant debris and mulch that provide hiding places.
Uses
Edible Petals
CulinaryLily petals can be used as edible garnishes in salads and desserts, adding visual drama and a slightly sweet flavor. However, ensure lilies are grown without pesticides if consuming. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional Chinese medicine, lily bulbs (different species than ornamental lilies) have been used to treat cough and promote calmness. Stargazer lilies are ornamental hybrids not typically used medicinally. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdStargazer lilies are premium cut flowers prized by florists and home gardeners for their fragrance, longevity in the vase, and dramatic appearance. They are often featured in wedding bouquets and special occasion arrangements. [source]
Pressed Flower Craft
CraftLily petals and flowers can be pressed and dried for use in scrapbooking, card making, and other paper crafts, preserving their striking color and shape. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeStargazer lilies attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds to the garden, supporting local pollinator populations and beneficial insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For cut flowers, cut stems in the morning when the lowest buds are just starting to open. Remove the lower leaves below the water line. Cut at a 45-degree angle. Immediately place in cool water with flower food. Remove stamens to prevent pollen stains. Change water every 2-3 days. Blooms can last 7-10 days indoors. For garden display, allow flowers to complete their natural cycle on the plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Stargazer' refers to the upward-facing flowers, which is unusual for lilies as most species have downward or horizontal-facing blooms. This distinctive characteristic was achieved through selective breeding.
- 🌱 Stargazer lilies are sterile hybrids created through complex genetic crossing, which means they cannot self-pollinate but produce the most stable and consistent flowers in commercial cultivation.
- 🌱 The fragrance of Stargazer lilies is so potent that a single stem in a room can fill the entire space with scent, making them one of the most fragrant lily cultivars available.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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