Asiatic Lily Lilium 'Forever Susan' (Ia/b)
ABOUT
Lilium 'Forever Susan' is noted for its striking flowers. The petals exhibit a blend of rich hues, with deep burgundy to chocolate brown at the center that gradually transitions into a vibrant orange toward the tips. Each flower gracefully curves back on itself to create a turk's cap shape, characteristic of some lily varieties. The contrast between the warm orange and the dark center gives the bloom an exotic and eye-catching appearance. The stamens are prominently displayed, with anthers that may be dusted in a heavy coat of pollen, contributing to the vividness of the flowers. The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and dark green, forming a lush backdrop that further accentuates the lively tones of the blooms. This lily produces a bouquet of these magnificent flowers atop sturdy stems, creating a splendid display when in full bloom. The plant reveals a lush and elegant look, which can make it a favorite for gardeners seeking a dramatic and colorful impact in their floral arrangements or garden beds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Forever Susan Lily, Asiatic Lily 'Forever Susan'
Common names
Lilium 'Forever Susan' (Ia/b).
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Lilium 'Forever Susan' is lily. Lilies are not highly toxic to humans, but they can cause minor symptoms if ingested. Possible symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It’s generally advised to avoid eating any part of this plant. In most cases, the consequences of ingesting small quantities of lily plant material are not severe, but seeking medical attention is recommended, especially if symptoms persist.
To pets
The common name for Lilium 'Forever Susan' is lily. Lilies are highly toxic, especially to cats, even in small amounts. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to acute kidney failure in cats. Symptoms of lily poisoning may include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, kidney failure, and even death without prompt treatment. Dogs may experience mild stomach upset after ingesting lilies, but they are not as sensitive as cats. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a lily, seek veterinary attention immediately as this can be a medical emergency.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Attraction: Lilium 'Forever Susan' features striking orange and maroon blooms that add dramatic color to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: This lily variety is known for being robust and relatively easy to cultivate, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, it returns each year, providing lasting beauty with minimal need to replant annually.
- Pollinator Friendly: The bright colors and fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting bio-diversity.
- Versatile Landscaping: Can be used in mixed beds, borders, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Cut Flower Use: The long stems and striking blooms are ideal for creating vibrant and long-lasting cut flower arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in the summer, adding visual interest to the garden during this season.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with only basic needs of sunlight, water, and occasional fertilization.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lilium 'Forever Susan' petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering hues from yellow to orange depending on the mordant used.
- The sturdy stems of the plant can be incorporated into floral crafts, such as homemade wreaths or decorative frames.
- Pressed or dried Lilium 'Forever Susan' flowers can be used in scrapbooking or decoupage projects for a touch of natural beauty.
- Petals of the flower can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a subtle fragrance and color enhancement.
- As an artistic subject, Lilium 'Forever Susan' serves as an inspiring muse for painters and photographers due to its stunning colors and shapes.
- The bloom's striking appearance makes it a popular choice for tattoo artistry, symbolizing a variety of meanings from renewal to motherhood.
- During blooming season, Lilium 'Forever Susan' plants can serve as a natural attraction for beneficial insects like butterflies, aiding in garden biodiversity.
- The decomposing plant matter from Lilium 'Forever Susan' can add valuable organic matter to compost piles, enhancing soil quality when used as compost.
- The plant can function as an education tool in botanical studies, illustrating plant life cycles, pollination, and plant structure.
- When planted strategically, Lilium 'Forever Susan' can be used in landscape design to guide foot traffic or frame views in gardens and parks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Traditionally, lilies are associated with purity and innocence, often used in religious contexts to represent these virtues.
- Royalty: The regal appearance of lilies has linked them to royalty, symbolizing the grace and dignity of kings and queens.
- Renewal and Rebirth: The cycle of lily flowers blooming every season is emblematic of renewal and the idea of being reborn or starting anew.
- Motherhood: Some cultures regard lilies as a symbol of motherhood due to their nurturing appearance and strong association with Madonna lily.
- Transcendence: The lily is often thought to bridge the spiritual and physical worlds, representing transcendence and the journey of the soul.
- Passion: The deep color and bold appearance of 'Forever Susan' can be symbolic of passionate sentiments, expressing strong emotions and feelings.
- Beauty: 'Forever Susan' lilies, with their striking appearance, are universally considered a symbol of beauty and elegance.
WaterAsiatic lilies, like 'Forever Susan', require consistent moisture during their growing season. They should be watered thoroughly to moisten the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches once a week, applying approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot of soil. During periods of drought or extreme heat, watering frequency may need to increase to twice a week. Reduce watering as the plant goes dormant in the fall. Overwatering or allowing the bulbs to sit in water can cause rot, so ensure soil drainage is good.
LightAsiatic lilies require full sun to thrive, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Plant 'Forever Susan' in a location that receives plenty of sunshine, as this maximizes bloom quality and plant health. However, in very hot climates, a little afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent burning.
Temperature'Forever Susan' lilies flourish in a temperature range of 60-75°F but can survive in temperatures as low as 1°F when dormant in the winter and up to 90°F during their active growth phase. The ideal growing conditions are in the moderate temperature range, making sure the bulbs are planted at a depth that protects them from climate extremes.
PruningPruning 'Forever Susan' lilies involves removing spent flowers to prevent seed formation, which diverts the plant's energy away from the bulb. Cut back the stems to ground level at the end of the blooming season or once they have yellowed and died back naturally in late fall. Pruning is only necessary once a year, after flowering, to maintain energy for the next season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAsiatic lily 'Forever Susan' thrives in a well-draining soil mix composed of loam, sand, and organic matter such as compost or peat moss. The ideal soil pH for this lily ranges from 6.0 to 6.5. Ensuring adequate drainage is crucial for preventing bulb rot and to provide the right conditions for healthy growth.
RepottingAsiatic lily 'Forever Susan' doesn't require frequent repotting and it's typically done every 3 to 4 years. Bulbs should be repotted when they become overcrowded or when the soil quality deteriorates, which can hinder the lily's growth and flowering ability.
Humidity & MistingAsiatic lily 'Forever Susan' prefers moderate humidity levels and does not require particularly high humidity. The plant can thrive in average ambient humidity found in most outdoor environments, making it unnecessary to modify natural humidity conditions specifically for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Forever Susan' in bright, indirect light and ensure soil drains well.
Outdoor
Plant 'Forever Susan' in well-drained soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleAsiatic Lily 'Forever Susan' begins its life as a bulb which is typically planted in the fall. After a period of winter dormancy, the bulb sprouts in spring, producing strong stems and lance-shaped leaves. The plant continues to grow and gather energy through photosynthesis, and by early to mid-summer, it blooms with dark burgundy to orange flowers marked with dark spots. After flowering, the plant sets seed if pollination has occurred, although many gardeners remove spent flowers to encourage the plant to focus energy back into the bulb. As fall approaches, the foliage yellows and the plant enters dormancy, with the bulb resting underground through the winter. The cycle recommences the following spring when temperatures rise and growing conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Lilium 'Forever Susan' is by division of the bulbs. This Asiatic lily variety forms underground bulbs that can be separated and replanted to grow new plants. The optimal time for bulb division is in the fall, after the foliage has died back but before the ground freezes. This usually occurs late September to mid-October. To propagate, carefully dig up the bulbs and brush off any excess soil. Gently pull the bulbs apart, ensuring that each section has at least one growth point or 'scale.' Replant the new bulbs about 6 to 8 inches deep (15 to 20 centimeters) and about 12 inches apart (30 centimeters) in well-draining soil with ample sunlight. Water thoroughly after planting to encourage the establishment of the new bulbs.
