Photo: Stan Shebs · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Asiatic Lily
Asiatic lilies are the bold, upward-facing workhorses of the lily world, prized for saturated colour and a clean, almost scentless bloom that suits guests sensitive to fragrance. Bred from several East Asian Lilium species, they open reliably from bud and hold well in the vase, giving florists dependable focal power at a friendly price. Their flat, star-like flowers come in vivid yellows, oranges, reds and pinks that carry across a room. They are a go-to for bright everyday bouquets, cheerful get-well arrangements and large-scale seasonal work.
| Family | Liliaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Garden hybrid origin (from Asian Lilium species) |
| Peak season | June, July, August |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 40–90 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | yellow, orange, red, pink, white, cream |
| Price tier | mid |
Cut stems on a slant and place in clean, cool water with flower food; buy when the lowest bud shows colour and the upper buds are still tight. Strip any foliage that would sit below the waterline. Gently remove the pollen-laden anthers once flowers open to protect linens and prevent staining. Store cool at 2-4°C and keep well away from ripening fruit, which shortens bud opening.
- •Buy with buds just showing colour
- •Remove anthers to prevent pollen stains
- •Change water every two to three days
- •Recut stems under water
- •Keep cool and away from fruit
Bouquet Builder — by Lacy BirdDesign the bouquet. See it as a photo.
Frequently asked questions
When is Asiatic Lily in season?
Asiatic Lily peaks in June, July, August, and florists can usually source it January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Asiatic Lily last in a vase?
Expect 7–14 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Asiatic Lily?
Good substitutes for Asiatic Lily include Oriental lily, Calla lily, Alstroemeria. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Asiatic Lily symbolise?
Asiatic Lily is associated with prosperity, positivity, confidence, renewal.
How do you care for cut Asiatic Lily?
Buy with buds just showing colour
