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Martagon Lily (Lilium martagon)

Lilium martagon, the Martagon Lily, is a hardy perennial with distinctive Turk's Cap flowers. It grows 0.8-1.5 m tall, with reflexed petals in pink, purple, or white. It

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Partial shade to full sun.

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during growth, reduce in dormancy.

Soil

Well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Temperature

Temperate, 15-25 °C during growth, cold hardy in winter.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Balanced fertilizer in early spring and after flowering.

Care Requirements

Light

Partial shade to full sun.

Water

Keep soil consistently moist during growth, reduce in dormancy.

Soil

Well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Temperature

Temperate, 15-25 °C during growth, cold hardy in winter.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Balanced fertilizer in early spring and after flowering.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Category

Flowering, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Garden, Ground, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

0.8-1.5 m

Spread

0.3-0.6 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

Winter

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Whorled

Flower Size

4-7 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Sep
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths87
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · OctPeak fruit · Nov
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths87
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classLiliopsida
  • orderLiliales
  • familyLiliaceae
  • genusLilium
  • speciesLilium martagon
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Yes

Rating: 2/5

Toxic for pets

Yes

Rating: 9/5

Edible

No

All parts of Lilium species are highly toxic to cats, causing acute kidney failure. Ingestion by humans or other pets can cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Additional Care Tips

Martagon Lilies require consistent moisture during their active growing season from spring through flowering. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly as foliage begins to yellow and die back in late summer, leading into their winter dormancy. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Martagon Lilies can be propagated by seed, though this is a slow process taking several years to flower. More commonly, they are propagated by division of offsets from mature bulbs in late summer or early autumn after the foliage has died back. Scale propagation, where individual scales are removed from the bulb and planted, is also an effective method for increasing stock.

When grown in pots, Martagon Lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the bulb has outgrown its container. This is best done in autumn during dormancy. Carefully remove the bulb, gently separate any offsets, and replant in fresh, well-draining potting mix, ensuring the top of the bulb is covered by about 10-15 cm of soil.

FAQs

When is the best time to plant Martagon Lily bulbs?

Martagon Lily bulbs are best planted in autumn, typically from September to November, allowing them to establish roots before winter dormancy. They can also be planted in early spring before new growth begins.

What kind of soil does Lilium martagon prefer?

Lilium martagon thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Good drainage is crucial to prevent bulb rot, so amending heavy clay soils with organic matter is beneficial.

How often should I water my Martagon Lilies?

During the active growing season (spring and summer), water Martagon Lilies regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly once the foliage starts to yellow and the plant enters dormancy.

Are Martagon Lilies toxic to pets?

Yes, all parts of Lilium species, including Martagon Lilies, are highly toxic to cats and can cause acute kidney failure. They can also cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs and other pets, so it's best to keep pets away from them.

Do Martagon Lilies need full sun or shade?

Martagon Lilies perform best in partial shade, especially in areas with hot afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves. In cooler climates, they can tolerate more direct sunlight, but always ensure some protection from intense midday rays.