Regal lily (Lilium regale)

Overview

The Regal lily, scientifically known as Lilium regale, is a highly cherished trumpet lily prized for its magnificent, large, and intensely fragrant blooms. Introduced from China in the early 1900s, this stately bulb provides dramatic vertical accent and glorious color in mid-summer gardens. Gardeners value the Lilium regale for its strong stems and the sheer abundance of flowers, often numbering up to 25 per stem.

This species thrives in average, medium, well-drained soil conditions, performing best when sited in full sun or light afternoon shade. While capable of handling more drought than some other lilies, consistent moisture is key to supporting its impressive height and large flowers. The Lilium regale makes an indelible aesthetic statement when established in perennial borders or near relaxation areas to capture its rich perfume.

Proper care, including adequate depth when planting and support in windy locations, ensures robust clumps that multiply over the years. By following basic cultural requirements, gardeners can successfully grow this classic, regal flower, adding reliable summer spectacle and fragrance.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Liliaceae
• Plant Type: Bulb
• Native Range: South-central China
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 3-5 ft
  • Spread: 0.75-1 ft
• Bloom Time: July
• Bloom Description: Pink-purple outside, trumpet white inside with a yellow throat
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

Plant Lilium regale bulbs ideally in the fall, or in the early spring if fall planting is impossible, ensuring they receive full sun to part shade. This lily requires average, medium, well-drained soil but performs best in mixes rich in organic matter. Plant bulbs deeply, approximately 6 to 8 inches down, leaving about 18 to 24 inches between each bulb. Grouping at least three together yields the best visual effect.

Water needs for the regal lily are medium; the bulbs definitely prefer consistent moisture year-round, though they exhibit better drought tolerance than many other bulb types. Once established, the primary cultural requirement moves toward support and root zone cooling. Mulch heavily around the base of the plants to maintain a cool root environment throughout the summer.

Since the stems grow tall, often reaching 5 feet or more, staking the Lilium regale is highly advisable to protect them from wind damage. Deadhead faded flowers promptly to direct the plant’s energy away from seed production, but wait until the foliage and stems have turned completely yellow in the fall before cutting them back to the ground.

Landscape Uses

The towering presence and intoxicating fragrance of the Regal lily make it a perfect specimen for mixed perennial borders where it can mingle with later-blooming perennials. Planting lilies like Lilium regale sequentially with Asiatic and Oriental types ensures you have continuous lily blooms throughout the season. Companion plants should have foliage that can gracefully cover the bare lower stems once the lily leaves begin to fade after flowering finishes.

For maximum impact and evening enjoyment, group several regal lilies close to a patio, deck, or walkway. Their large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers reflect moonlight beautifully, enhancing the garden atmosphere after sunset. Integrating them into strategic groupings provides excellent vertical structure against lower shrubs or groundcovers.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Fragrant
• Good for cut flowers

Noteworthy Characteristics

Lilium regale, commonly called regal lily, is a trumpet-type lily which is native to the western part of Sichuan Province in southwestern China. It features large, outward-facing, fragrant, white trumpets (6-8” long) with a yellow throat, flushed purple outside. Each stem typically carries up to 25 flowers, making it a long-lasting fresh cut flower.

Tolerances

• The lily leaf beetle is a significant pest in some areas.
• Aphids can transmit mosaic virus via buds.
• Rodents (mice, voles, gophers, chipmunks) may eat the bulbs.
• Deer and rabbits consume leaves, buds, and flowers.

Potential Problems

Lilies are generally tough, but specific pests and diseases require vigilance. In areas where it is present, the lily leaf beetle is a major threat; inspect plants regularly for these bright red pests and remove them manually or treat according to local recommendations. Aphids, which can carry incurable mosaic virus, sometimes gather on the buds and should be treated immediately with mild insecticidal soap.

If you garden in hot and humid regions, fungal issues can be exacerbated. Prevention involves ensuring excellent air circulation, often achieved by planting the Lilium regale in raised beds rather than low-lying areas. Rodents that feed on the bulbs pose another danger; protect bulbs by planting them inside wire mesh cages or buried pots.

Remember that these tall lilies often require staking to prevent lodging, especially since they can reach 6 feet when mature. When harvesting stems for bouquets, always leave at least one-third of the stalk intact, ensuring the remaining foliage provides necessary nutrition for the following year’s bloom development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Regal lily suitable for?

The Regal lily (Lilium regale) is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8.

How large does Lilium regale grow?

This plant typically reaches a height between 3 and 5 feet, with a spread of 0.75 to 1 foot wide.

When does Lilium regale bloom?

The main bloom time for the Regal lily is in July, featuring fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers described as pink-purple outside and white with a yellow throat inside.

What sun exposure does Lilium regale need?

Lilium regale prefers full sun but can tolerate partially shaded conditions in the garden.

Conclusion

The Lilium regale, or regal lily, brings unparalleled fragrance and classic trumpet form to the mid-summer garden with minimal fuss, provided its rich soil and staking requirements are met. This dependable bulb multiplies beautifully, returning year after year to reward the gardener. Check your local winter conditions to ensure you fall within USDA Zones 4-8, and plan to plant your bulbs this coming fall for a stunning display next July.

Companion Planting

When designing a space for Lilium regale, select companions that appreciate similar growing conditions—moist, rich, well-drained soil and afternoon shade are ideal. Excellent partners include foliage plants like Hostas, which offer broad, contrasting leaves that help shade the lily’s roots and cover senescing lower foliage. Ferns also pair well, providing a soft, natural textural backdrop for the rigid lily stems.

Since this trumpet lily is quite tall, avoid placing spreading or tall companions directly in front of it, as they will block the view of the magnificent summer blooms. Consider medium-height, late-blooming perennials such as Tall Garden Phlox or certain varieties of Clematis that offer vertical interest without overwhelming the Lilium regale.

Design Ideas

Using the regal lily emphasizes vertical elements and scent in perennial borders. Plant them closer to paths or seating areas; their intense fragrance peaks in the evening, making sitting nearby a delightful experience. Use odd numbers in small groupings (threes or fives) for a natural, less rigid appearance than rows.

For a classic cottage garden look, intersperse the white trumpets of the regal lily among pink or blue flowers, leveraging the color contrast against the surrounding green structure. Ensure you allow adequate spacing (18-24 inches) as these lilies form large clumps over time, requiring room for air circulation to minimize potential fungal issues.