If you’ve ever wondered what does a stargazer lily look like, you’re in for a treat. These are some of the most stunning and recognizable flowers you can grow, known for there vivid colors and powerful, sweet fragrance that fills the summer air.
Their dramatic appearance makes them a favorite in gardens and bouquets alike. Let’s take a close look at these beautiful blooms so you can recognize them and perhaps decide to grow your own.
What Does A Stargazer Lily Look Like
The Stargazer lily is a type of Oriental hybrid lily. It’s famous for its large, showy flowers that command attention. Each bloom faces dramatically upward, which is how it got its celestial name.
The petals are a deep, rich pink to crimson color. They are heavily speckled with dark, freckle-like spots. The edges of the petals are often a cleaner, lighter pink or white, creating a beautiful contrast.
One of its most distinctive features is the central white or pale pink star. This “star” runs down the middle of each petal from the tip to the throat of the flower. The combination of colors is simply breathtaking.
The Anatomy of the Bloom
Each flower is quite large, typically 6 to 8 inches across. They have six petals (technically three petals and three sepals that look identical). The petals are thick and waxy, giving them a luxurious feel.
From the center, long stamens protrude, topped with dark, rust-colored anthers covered in pollen. The pistil is slightly longer, ending in a three-lobed stigma. This prominent center adds to the flower’s dramatic look.
Fragrance and Stems
The scent is intense and sweet, often described as spicy or exotic. It’s strongest in the early evening. A single stem can perfume an entire room, which is something to consider if you are very sensitive to strong fragrances.
The plants themselves are tall and sturdy. They typically grow 3 to 4 feet high. The stems are straight and dark green, with long, lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls or spirals around the stem.
How They Grow on the Stem
Stargazer lilies don’t produce just one flower per stem. They form clusters of blooms at the top.
- A mature, healthy bulb will send up a stem that produces 4 to 8 individual flower buds.
- These buds open in succession, not all at once, extending the show for weeks.
- The lower flowers open first, with the ones at the very top opening last.
Planting and Caring for Your Stargazer Lilies
Now that you know what to look for, here’s how to grow these spectacular flowers in your own garden. They are surprisingly easy with the right conditions.
Choosing Bulbs and Planting Time
Plant lily bulbs in the fall or early spring. Look for firm, plump bulbs without any soft spots or mold. The bigger the bulb, the more flowers it will likely produce in its first year.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Pick a sunny spot. Stargazers need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily, but appreciate afternoon shade in very hot climates.
- Ensure the soil drains well. They hate soggy feet. Amend heavy clay soil with compost.
- Dig a hole about 6 to 8 inches deep. A good rule is to plant the bulb three times as deep as the bulb is tall.
- Place the bulb pointy-side up in the hole. Cover with soil and water thoroughly.
- Space bulbs about 12 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.
Watering and Feeding Needs
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing and blooming season. A deep watering once a week is usually sufficent.
Feed your lilies when they first emerge in spring and again just as the flower buds are forming. Use a balanced fertilizer or one formulated for bulbs. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Post-Bloom and Winter Care
After the flowers fade, snip off the spent blooms. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on seed production. However, do not cut down the stem or leaves.
The green foliage is crucial for gathering energy to recharge the bulb for next year. Let the leaves turn yellow and die back naturally. In colder zones, a layer of mulch in late fall helps protect the bulbs from freeze-thaw cycles.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
Even tough plants can have problems. Here’s what to watch for with your Stargazers.
Pests to Watch For
- Red Lily Leaf Beetles: These bright red beetles and their larvae can skeletonize leaves. Hand-pick them off daily or use an appropriate organic insecticide.
- Aphids: They sometimes cluster on buds and new growth. A strong spray of water from the hose usually knocks them off.
Disease Prevention
Good practices prevent most diseases.
- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease causes brown spots on leaves and buds. Ensure good spacing for air flow and avoid overhead watering.
- Bulb Rot: Caused by poorly draining soil. Always plant in well-drained areas and don’t overwater.
- Remove any diseased plant material from the garden immediatly to prevent spread.
Using Stargazer Lilies in Arrangements
Their beauty and scent make them phenomenal cut flowers. Follow these tips to make them last longer.
- Cut stems when the buds are colored and just starting to open, preferably in the morning.
- Use a sharp knife and cut at an angle.
- Immediately place stems in lukewarm water.
- Remove any leaves that will be below the water line in the vase.
- To prolong vase life, snip off the pollen-covered anthers. This also prevents the pollen from staining petals, furniture, or clothing.
- Change the vase water every other day.
Be aware that the strong fragrance can be overwhelming in a small, closed room. It’s best to enjoy them in a well-ventilated space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Stargazer lilies perennials?
Yes, they are hardy perennial bulbs. With proper care, they will return and multiply each year in zones 4-9.
Are Stargazer lilies poisonous to cats?
Yes. All true lilies (Lilium species) are highly toxic to cats. Even ingesting a small amount of pollen or water from the vase can cause acute kidney failure. Keep them out of homes with cats.
How long do the flowers bloom?
Each individual flower lasts about 1-2 weeks. Since the buds on a stem open sequentially, the entire plant can provide blooms for 3 to 4 weeks in mid to late summer.
Why are my Stargazer lily buds falling off?
This is often caused by stress, like inconsistent watering, extreme temperature changes, or a pest infestation. Thrips, tiny insects, can also cause bud blast.
Can I grow Stargazer lilies in pots?
Absolutely. Use a large, deep pot with excellent drainage. You may need to water more frequently. They can make a stunning patio display.
Do they multiply?
Yes, over time the bulbs will multiply underground, forming clumps. You can dig and divide these clumps in the fall every 3-4 years to propagate new plants and maintain vigor.
Stargazer lilies are a true garden standout. Their combination of striking looks and unforgettable scent creates a powerful sensory experience. By understanding exactly what they look like and how they grow, you can succesfully add these magnificent flowers to your garden. They reward a little care with spectacular, fragrant blooms summer after summer.