Lily Lilium 'Renoir'
ABOUT
The Lilium 'Renoir' is an ornamental plant known for its large and flamboyant flowers. Each bloom is comprised of six broad petals that often exhibit a soft pink hue, creating a romantic and delicate appearance. The margins of the petals are slightly ruffled, adding to their charm. At the center of the flower, one can notice a contrasting set of prominent anthers, which bear a rich, golden-yellow color, providing a striking visual contrast against the pastel backdrop of the petals. The flowers are known to exude a sweet, inviting fragrance which can permeate the surrounding area, making it a delightful addition to any garden space. The leaves of the Lilium 'Renoir' are lance-shaped, with a deep green color, and create a lush backdrop for the radiant blooms. The plant is known to have a strong, upright stem that supports the weight of the flowers. In general, the overall appearance of the plant is one of elegance and poise, with the blooms commanding attention and serving as the focal point of its visual display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Renoir Lily, Oriental Lily Renoir
Common names
Lilium 'Renoir'
ToxicityTo humans
The 'Renoir' lily, like other members of the Lilium genus, contains compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. However, lily poisoning in humans is less common than in pets. If parts of the plant are consumed, they can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it may lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances due to gastrointestinal distress. It is especially important to keep lilies away from young children who might be tempted to chew on the plant.
To pets
The 'Renoir' lily is highly toxic to cats and can also be dangerous to dogs, although cats are more susceptible. Ingesting even a small amount of any part of the plant, including the leaves, petals, pollen, or water from the vase, can lead to acute kidney failure in cats. Symptoms of lily poisoning in pets can include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased or decreased urination. Kidney damage can occur within a short time frame, and immediate veterinary attention is crucial. Without prompt treatment, lily ingestion can be fatal to pets, especially cats.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds visual appeal to gardens and landscapes with its large, colorful blooms.
- Cut Flower Use: Long-lasting in vases, making them perfect for flower arrangements.
- Attracts Pollinators: Welcomes bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Variety of Colors: Comes in a range of colors that provide options for different garden color schemes.
- Perennial Growth: Returns year after year, reducing the need for replanting annually.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a variety of soil types and garden conditions, making it suitable for many gardeners.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms in late spring to summer, adding seasonal interest to the garden landscape.
- Symbolism and Gifts: Often associated with purity, joy, and renewal, making them popular gifts for many occasions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lilium 'Renoir' blooms can be used in perfumery for their fragrance; extracting the scent can produce a unique and appealing perfume base.
- The petals of this lily can be crystallized and used as elegant, edible decorations on cakes and desserts.
- Dried Lilium 'Renoir' flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures, adding color and a subtle fragrance to a room.
- The strong stems of Lilium 'Renoir' can be used in weavings or basketry as a decorative element due to their length and straightness.
- The vibrant colors of the petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics or paper, giving a unique hue that’s derived from nature.
- Lilium 'Renoir' pollen, though it can stain, may be used in art projects for its bright color and texture when sealed properly.
- This lily can serve as a biodegradable confetti alternative in outdoor celebrations, as the petals are organic and less harmful to the environment.
- The flowers can be used in a flower pounding art technique to transfer their color and shapes onto fabric or paper.
- Lilium 'Renoir' can be used in educational settings, such as biology classes, to study the structure and reproductive system of angiosperms.
- By floating the blooms in a bowl of water, they can be used as natural and attractive table centerpieces for events and gatherings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lily, being associated with abundance and purity in Feng Shui, can be placed in the living room or bedroom to promote a peaceful and prosperous energy. Its white blooms are believed to bring a calming yin energy that can help balance the overall chi of a space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity - Like other lilies, the Renoir Lily is often associated with purity and majesty, especially in religious contexts where it might symbolize the Virgin Mary's purity.
- Renewal - Lilies represent renewal and rebirth because they are perennials that bloom year after year, often around Easter which is a time of resurrection.
- Beauty - The delicate and colorful petals of the Renoir Lily can be reminiscent of Renoir's impressionist paintings, symbolizing a sense of beauty and artistry.
- Transcendence - The lily is frequently seen as a symbol of transcendence, its blooms reaching upwards, suggesting a connection between the earth and the heavens.
- Passion - While white lilies usually symbolize purity, the vibrant colors of the Renoir Lily can also represent passionate feelings and love.
- Motherhood - Lilies are often associated with motherhood and fertility, symbolizing a nurturing nature and the idea of creation.
WaterLilies, including the 'Renoir', should be watered thoroughly as soon as the top inch of soil feels dry to ensure consistent soil moisture. Typically, this means watering once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. When you water your lilies, aim to provide them with about one gallon of water per square foot every week during the growing season. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases and make sure the plant is in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.
LightLilies like the 'Renoir' lily thrive in a location where they can receive full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. The ideal spot would be a south-facing garden that is not shaded by larger plants or structures. However, in very hot climates, they will appreciate some afternoon shade to protect them from the intense heat.
TemperatureThe 'Renoir' lily, like most lilies, prefers temperatures that range between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and a bit cooler at night. They can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to temperatures outside this range can be damaging. The ideal growing conditions are a temperate climate with moderate temperatures.
PruningPruning 'Renoir' lilies is primarily done to remove dead or faded flowers and to maintain plant health. Cut off spent flowers to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. After blooming, leave the stalk in place as it will help nourish the bulbs for the following year. The best time for pruning lilies is in the late fall or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Lily 'Renoir' is well-draining with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. A good mix can be made with equal parts of loam, sand, and peat moss. Perlite can be added to improve drainage.
RepottingLilies 'Renoir' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the bulb outgrows its current pot. Always repot in the spring before growth starts.
Humidity & MistingLily 'Renoir' prefers moderate to high humidity levels, around 40-60%. However, it is adaptable and can endure lower humidity environments if necessary.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleLilium 'Renoir', also known as the Renoir Lily, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which undergoes a period of dormancy, typically during the cold winter months. In spring, new shoots emerge from the bulb as temperatures rise and daylight increases, marking the onset of the growth phase. The plant develops sturdy stems and lance-shaped leaves, followed by flower buds that form at the tip of the stem. Throughout the summer, these buds bloom into large, fragrant flowers, often in shades of pink and white, showcasing the Renoir Lily's distinctive coloration. After pollination, if it occurs, the flowers eventually wither, and the plant produces seed capsules. As fall approaches, the plant begins to die back, with the above-ground parts turning yellow and then brown before going into a second dormancy period, with the cycle ready to repeat the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Lilium 'Renoir', commonly known as the Renoir Lily, is through division of its bulbs. This is best done in the fall after the leaves have died back, signaling that the plant has entered dormancy. Carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate them, ensuring that each new section has at least one growth point, or scale, attached. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, which is typically around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm), and space them approximately 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) apart to allow for adequate growing room. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. This division method is highly effective as it maintains the genetic consistency of the original plant and encourages healthy new growth.
