Lily Lilium 'Aspen Gold' (Iic/d)
ABOUT
Lilium 'Aspen Gold', commonly known as the 'Aspen Gold' lily, boasts a striking appearance with features that make it a favorite among garden enthusiasts. The plant is adorned with vibrant, golden-yellow flowers that exude a lively and welcoming hue in any garden space. Each bloom exhibits a large, trumpet-shaped silhouette with gracefully recurved petals that create an alluring visual display. The petals often exhibit a slight sprinkle of freckles in a contrasting color, usually a deeper tone, which adds to the flower's charm and intricate appearance. These freckles are more prominent towards the petal's base, adding depth and texture to the bloom. The center of the 'Aspen Gold' lily flower features prominent anthers that protrude outward, carrying pollen at their tips, which stands out against the yellow background, offering an attractive spot for pollinators. The anthers are supported by long, slender filaments that elevate them, ensuring they are easily visible. The flowers are assembled in clusters at the top of the plant, creating a bouquet-like effect that is visually stunning when the plant is in full bloom. The foliage of the 'Aspen Gold' lily comprises glossy, dark green leaves that provide a perfect backdrop to the bright flowers. These leaves are lance-shaped and are arranged spirally along the stem, enhancing the plant's overall lush and healthy appearance. When not in bloom, the foliage itself adds a touch of greenery to the landscape. The striking appearance of the 'Aspen Gold' lily, characterized by its golden-yellow flowers with a hint of freckling, prominent anthers, and glossy green foliage, makes it a captivating addition to gardens, where it can serve as a focal point or be used in mass plantings for a dramatic burst of color.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Aspen Gold Lily
Common names
Lilium 'Aspen Gold' (Iic/d)
ToxicityTo humans
Lilium 'Aspen Gold', commonly known as Lily, is considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. However, ingestion of any parts of the lily, especially in large quantities, can result in mild gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is particularly important to keep young children, who might be tempted to chew on plants, away from lilies. Severe poisoning is rare in humans, but if you suspect ingestion, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
To pets
Lilium 'Aspen Gold', or simply Lily, is highly toxic to cats and can lead to severe kidney damage or failure if any part of the plant is ingested, even in small amounts. Symptoms of lily poisoning in cats can include vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, kidney failure, and potentially death if not treated promptly. If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a lily, it is critical to seek immediate veterinary care. Dogs are less vulnerable, but ingestion can still cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It is best practice to keep lilies out of reach of pets, especially cats, due to the severe risk they pose.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Appeal: Adds vibrant color and dramatic flair to gardens with its large, golden-yellow flowers.
- Landscape Design Versatility: Suitable for borders, flower beds, and as a striking container plant.
- Pollinator Attraction: Flowers provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms have a long vase life, making them ideal for floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Seasonal Interest: Contributes to the seasonal progression of garden displays with its mid to late summer blooming period.
- Cultural Significance: Often used in celebrations and festivals, symbolizing happiness and good fortune in various cultures.
- Easy Care: Relatively low maintenance requirements, suitable for gardeners of various skill levels.
- Propagation: Can be propagated by bulb division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The striking color and large blossoms of the lily make it a popular choice for photographers seeking to add natural beauty to their still-life or portrait compositions.
- Natural Dye: The petals of the lily can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of yellow hues.
- Craft Supplies: Dried lily petals can be used in craft projects, such as in the creation of homemade paper or potpourri.
- Edible Decorations: Some parts of the lily are edible and can be candied or used as a decorative and edible element on cakes and desserts.
- Fragrance Production: The natural fragrance of lily flowers can be captured and used in making perfumes or scented oils.
- Fish Poison: In some cultures, compounds from certain lily species have traditionally been used to stun fish, making them easier to catch.
- Indicator Plant: Lilies can be used by gardeners as indicator plants to signal soil health and the presence of certain pests or diseases.
- Wedding Bouquets: Often associated with purity and joy, lilies are a classic choice for bridal bouquets and wedding decorations.
- Gift Plant: A potted lily plant can make a meaningful gift, symbolizing happiness and prosperity.
- Floral Arrangements: The tall and sturdy stems of lilies make them a popular choice for adding height and structure to floral arrangements.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty - The Lilium 'Aspen Gold', commonly referred to as the Asiatic Lily, is highly valued for its stunning appearance, representing the concept of beauty in various cultures.
- Purity - Lilies are often associated with purity and chastity, making them popular choices for religious ceremonies and weddings.
- Renewal - With their perennial nature and reblooming each season, Asiatic Lilies symbolize the idea of rebirth and new beginnings.
- Passion - The vivid color of the 'Aspen Gold' variety can represent intense passion and enthusiasm.
- Wealth and Prosperity - In some cultures, the golden hues of this Asiatic Lily are seen as a sign of wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to the precious metal gold.
WaterFor an 'Aspen Gold' lily (Lilium), water the plant thoroughly until the soil is moist but not waterlogged, typically once a week during active growth. Increase watering frequency during hot, dry spells. Apply approximately one to one and a half gallons of water per plant each time you water, ensuring even distribution around the base without splashing the foliage. Reduce watering after the lily blooms and throughout the fall to allow the plant to prepare for dormancy.
Light'Aspen Gold' lilies thrive in locations where they can receive full sun to partial shade. It's best to plant them in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Partial afternoon shade is beneficial in extremely hot climates to prevent overheating.
TemperatureThe 'Aspen Gold' lily fares well in a wide temperature range but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. Mulching can help maintain a stable root temperature and protect against extreme cold.
PruningPrune your 'Aspen Gold' lily after the flowers fade to encourage healthy growth and future blooming. Remove spent flowers and any damaged or diseased stems. Cutting back the plant to ground level once the foliage has died back in the fall is recommended for annual cleanup.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Asiatic Lily 'Aspen Gold' is well-draining, rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. It is ideal to use a blend of loamy soil, peat moss, and sand or perlite to facilitate proper drainage while retaining enough moisture. Amend with compost to enrich the soil.
RepottingAsiatic Lilies including 'Aspen Gold' do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Generally, repotting every 3-4 years, or when the bulbs begin to crowd, is sufficient. It's best to repot after the flowering period when the plant is dormant.
Humidity & MistingAsiatic Lily 'Aspen Gold' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to typical outdoor humidity conditions. While they do not require a specific humidity level, maintaining a natural outdoor environment or indoor humidity around 40-60% is usually suitable for their growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, partial to full sun; mulch in winter.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Lilium 'Aspen Gold' (typically referred to as 'Aspen Gold' Lily) starts its life cycle as a bulb, which is planted in the ground in the early spring or fall. From this bulb, roots develop and anchor the plant while shoots emerge from the soil, signaling the growth phase. The shoots mature into stems with leaves, which photosynthesize to provide energy for growth. Eventually, flower buds develop, which bloom into the distinctive yellow flowers characteristic of the 'Aspen Gold' variety during the late spring to summer. After pollination, possibly by insects or wind, the flowers will wither and seeds will form in a capsule, marking the reproductive stage of the plant. Once the seeds mature, they can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, and if they land in suitable conditions, they may germinate to start a new life cycle, while the original plant's bulb will go dormant during the winter to restart the cycle in the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Asiatic lily 'Aspen Gold' is typically propagated by dividing and replanting the bulbs. These bulbs can be divided in late fall once the plant has gone dormant, usually after the first frost. To propagate, gently lift the bulb clumps from the soil, carefully separating them into individual bulbs. Each bulb should have a portion of the basal plate—the flat area where roots grow from the bottom of the bulb—and some roots. Replant the bulbs at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, which usually translates to a planting depth of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm). Space the bulbs about 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) apart in well-draining soil with ample sunlight to ensure healthy growth.
