Double Asiatic Lily Lilium 'Red Twin' (PBR) (Ia/b)
ABOUT
The Lilium 'Red Twin' is a striking plant known for its vibrant flower display. Sporting an eye-catching color palette, the petals exhibit a deep, rich red tone that immediately draws attention. The flowers are characterized by a two-toned effect: the bold red is complemented by a flush of a different shade or color radiating from the petal's center, which can add depth and complexity to its overall appearance. The blooms are large and often bowl-shaped, with a slightly recurved edge that gives them a somewhat turban-like appearance. The foliage of the plant is also noteworthy. Typically, the leaves are a lush green, providing a beautiful contrast to the dramatic red of the flowers. They are often arranged in whorls along the stem, which adds to the plant's structural elegance. As a part of the lily family, this plant's blooms are expectedly fragrant and can serve as a delightful sensory addition to any garden. The scent is usually sweet and may carry on the breeze, especially during warm parts of the day. Given its striking visual and olfactory features, Lilium 'Red Twin' is a popular choice among gardeners and flower enthusiasts seeking to add a splash of color and a touch of elegance to their outdoor or indoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae.
Synonyms
Double Asian Lily, Double Flowering Lily, Red Twin Lily.
Common names
Lilium 'Red Twin' (PBR) (Ia/b).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Lily is considered toxic if ingested by humans. While it is more dangerous to cats, humans can experience symptoms if they consume parts of the Lily plant. These symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, if large amounts are ingested, it could potentially lead to more serious effects such as kidney failure or heart rhythm disturbances. Handling the plant could also potentially cause minor skin irritation for sensitive individuals. It is advisable for humans to avoid ingesting any part of Lilies and to keep these plants out of reach from children who might accidentally consume them.
To pets
The plant commonly referred to as Lily is highly toxic to cats. If a cat ingests any part of a Lily plant, it can lead to severe kidney failure. Symptoms of Lily poisoning in pets, particularly cats, include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased or decreased urination. Without prompt and proper treatment, the poisoning can be fatal. In dogs, the toxicity is typically less severe but can still cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea if ingested. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a Lily, it is urgent to seek veterinary care immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3 feet (90 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: The Lilium 'Red Twin' is admired for its striking red double flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator attraction: It attracts beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are crucial for the pollination of many plants.
- Cultural significance: Lilies, including the 'Red Twin', are often symbolic in various cultures and can be used for ceremonial purposes or as meaningful gifts.
- Versatility in landscaping: This lily can be planted in borders, beds, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Seasonal interest: Adds vibrant color to the garden during its blooming period in summer, creating seasonal interest.
- Relatively low maintenance: Once established, lilies require minimal care apart from occasional watering and fertilizing.
- Perennial nature: As a perennial plant, it will come back year after year with the proper care, providing long-term enjoyment.
- Cut flower usage: The 'Red Twin' lily is well-suited for cutting and making floral arrangements due to its long stems and durable flowers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ink Production: The bright red pigment of the Red Twin Lily can be used to create natural dyes or inks for art and textile work, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic coloring agents.
- Culinary Decoration: The petals of the Red Twin Lily, although not commonly eaten, can adorn desserts and specialty dishes for an elegant touch of color and sophistication in high-end gastronomy.
- Photography: The vibrant and symmetrical blooms of the Red Twin Lily make it a sought-after subject for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature in their work.
- Wedding Bouquets: The Red Twin Lily's bold color and large blooms are often included in wedding bouquets and decorations to make a striking visual statement.
- Theme Gardens: Red Twin Lilies can be used to create a 'red-themed' garden area, creating an impactful visual display through the strategic use of similarly colored plants and flowers.
- Color Therapy: The intense red hue of the Red Twin Lily can be incorporated into color therapy practices, where it is believed that specific colors can influence emotions and well-being.
- Fragrance Extraction: The subtle fragrance of Red Twin Lilies can be captured and used in perfumery, offering a unique botanical note to fragrance blends.
- Float Decorations: The large, showy flowers of the Red Twin Lily can be used in floats for parades and festivals, providing a natural and biodegradable decoration option.
- Floral Jewelry: Real or dried Red Twin Lily petals can be crafted into floral jewelry pieces such as earrings or pendants for a unique, nature-inspired accessory.
- Feng Shui: In the practice of Feng Shui, Red Twin Lilies can be utilized to introduce fire energy into a space, helping to balance the energy flow and create harmony in the environment.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Asiatic lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Asiatic lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Passion: The vibrant red color of the Lilium 'Red Twin', also known as a double Oriental lily, often symbolizes strong emotions and passion. Red flowers are commonly associated with love and desire.
- Wealth and Prosperity: Lilies, in general, are symbols of abundance and prosperity. They are often given as gifts with the intention of wishing someone wealth and success.
- Purity and Virginity: Despite the Red Twin's bold color, lilies are traditionally associated with purity and chastity. This symbolism has its roots in ancient mythology and Christianity.
- Transitions and Renewal: Lilies represent transitions, fresh starts, and the renewal of life. They are commonly used in ceremonies that mark significant life changes such as weddings or funerals.
- Honor and Devotion: Lilies are also known to symbolize honor and the devotion one might hold for a loved one or a meaningful cause.
WaterAsiatic Lily 'Red Twin' should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means adding water about once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions like heat and humidity. During the growing season, in average conditions, they may need approximately one gallon of water per plant each week. During hot, dry spells, watering frequency should increase. It's important to avoid overwatering, as lilies do not like to be in soggy soil.
LightAsiatic Lily 'Red Twin' thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. They should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in extremely hot climates, they can benefit from some afternoon shade to protect them from the most intense sun and heat.
TemperatureAsiatic Lily 'Red Twin' prefers temperatures between 60°F and 70°F for optimal growth. They can tolerate a range down to about 40°F without damage and can survive temperature highs up to around 85°F, but they should be protected from extreme cold or frost.
PruningAsiatic Lily 'Red Twin' should be deadheaded by removing spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent seed formation. After flowering, cut just the flower stalks, leaving the foliage to die back naturally. Prune back to ground level once the foliage has yellowed and died back in the fall. This typically happens annually.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAsiatic lilies like the 'Red Twin' require well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0-7.0. A mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and loam is ideal.
RepottingAsiatic lilies, including 'Red Twin,' typically don't need frequent repotting and can thrive for several years in the same pot. Repot every 3-4 years or when the bulb outgrows its container.
Humidity & MistingAsiatic lilies like 'Red Twin' prefer moderate humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Red Twin' lily in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant 'Red Twin' lilies in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe hybrid Twinflower Lily, Lilium 'Red Twin' (PBR) (Ia/b), begins its life cycle as a bulb, which remains dormant underground during the cold season. After winter's end, warmth and moisture trigger the bulb to sprout and produce a stem, leaves, and roots. As the plant grows, it eventually produces buds that develop into the characteristic large, red, species-specific flowers with six petals and high ornamental value. Following pollination, which may be facilitated by insects attracted by the vibrant colors and scent, these flowers can produce seeds contained within a three-part capsule. If conditions permit, these seeds may be dispersed and could potentially grow into new plants, although hybrid plants like the Lilium 'Red Twin' are often propagated through bulb division rather than seeds to retain their specific traits. After flowering, and with the onset of colder weather, the plant's aboveground foliage will die back, and the bulb will enter another period of dormancy, restarting the cycle in the subsequent season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Lilium 'Red Twin', commonly referred to as the Asiatic Lily, is by bulb division. This process is typically carried out in the fall after the foliage has died back but can also be done in early spring before growth resumes. To propagate by bulb division, carefully unearth the bulb cluster and gently separate the individual bulblets from the mother bulb. Each bulblet should have a portion of the basal plate to ensure successful growth. Replant the bulblets immediately at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), ensuring adequate spacing to allow for growth. Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This technique allows gardeners to expand their lily collection efficiently and maintain the exact characteristics of the 'Red Twin' variety.
