Salmon Star Oriental Lily Lilium 'Salmon Star' (PBR) (Viia-b/b/c)
ABOUT
The Lilium 'Salmon Star' is a captivating plant that showcases stunning flowers which are the highlight of its appearance. The blossoms of this plant exhibit a delicate salmon-pink hue that lives up to the name 'Salmon Star.' Each flower is framed by long, slender petals that often feature a slightly ruffled edge, adding to their ornamental charm. The petals may display a gradient of color, with more intensely colored tips that fade as they approach the base where a softer, lighter pink may prevail. In the center of the blooms, you would typically find a contrast of deeper, richer spots dotting the petals, converging to form a star-like pattern which is a characteristic feature. These striking flowers grow out of sturdy stems that are surrounded by lush, green foliage. The leaves are typically lance-shaped and radiate outwards in a whorled pattern along the length of the stem, which forms an attractive background that further accentuates the vibrant salmon blooms. At the heart of each flower lies a cluster of prominent, brown to maroon anthers that adorn the stamens, protruding from the center and standing forth against the pastel background of the petals. These anthers produce a light dusting of pollen that adds a textural element to the flower. In full bloom, the 'Salmon Star' lily is an arresting sight, a burst of color that is bound to attract attention. Its flowers not only have a visual appeal but also emit a lovely fragrance that can draw in both admirers and pollinators alike. As the season progresses, the blooms gracefully unfold and can be enjoyed over a period of time, making the Lilium 'Salmon Star' a delightful addition to any garden or floral display.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Salmon Star Oriental Lily
Common names
Lilium 'Salmon Star' (PBR) (Viia-b/b/c)
ToxicityTo humans
The Salmon Star Asiatic Lily is known to have a low level of toxicity if ingested by humans. Consumption of any part of the plant can cause mild symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Generally, the plant is not considered to have severe toxic effects on humans, but it can cause discomfort and gastrointestinal upset.
To pets
The Salmon Star Asiatic Lily is highly toxic to cats, while dogs are typically not as affected. If a cat ingests even a small amount of the lily, it can lead to severe acute kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, and increased or decreased urination. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if ingestion occurs, as it can be potentially fatal without prompt treatment. Dog owners should still exercise caution and prevent dogs from ingesting the plant, as it may cause gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Salmon
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Appeal: The Lilium 'Salmon Star' is prized for its striking salmon-pink flowers, adding vibrant color and beauty to any garden or landscape.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is known for being relatively easy to cultivate, which makes it a good choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Suitable for Cutting: The stems and flowers of the 'Salmon Star' are excellent for cutting and using in floral arrangements.
- Long Blooming Period: It typically has a long flowering period, providing a lasting display of color during the blooming season.
- Adds Vertical Interest: With its tall stems, this lily can add vertical dimension to garden designs and flower beds.
- Versatile Planting: Suitable for borders, beds, and pots, the 'Salmon Star' lily is versatile and can be incorporated into various garden styles and settings.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it comes back year after year, reducing the need for replanting annually and providing a long-term presence in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lilium 'Salmon Star' petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a soft, salmon pink hue.
- Dried 'Salmon Star' petals can serve as an eco-friendly confetti at weddings or celebrations, offering a biodegradable alternative to synthetic confetti.
- 'Salmon Star' flowers can be pressed and included in handmade paper to create beautiful and unique stationery.
- The stalks of the 'Salmon Star' lily can be used in basket weaving to add strength and a touch of color to the finished product.
- Lily pollen from 'Salmon Star' lilies can be used in crafting to create a golden pigment for artworks or as a colorant in artisanal candles.
- When dried and crushed, the petals of 'Salmon Star' lilies could be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a natural and subtle fragrance.
- 'Salmon Star' lily bulbs can be hollowed out and used as natural containers or biodegradable plant pots for starting small seedlings.
- Leaves of the 'Salmon Star' lily, when dried, can be used to create a natural mulch that will decompose and enrich the soil.
- The strong stems of 'Salmon Star' lilies can be used as natural support stakes for other plants in the garden.
- Floral artists can utilize 'Salmon Star' lily flowers to create botanical art, such as framed compositions or botanical sculptures.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Salmon Star Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Salmon Star Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and Rebirth: Lilies in general are often associated with rebirth and new beginnings, as they are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring.
- Purity and Virginity: Historically, lilies are symbols of purity and chastity, which stems from their pristine and elegant appearance.
- Motherhood and Fertility: In some cultures, lilies are tied to motherhood and fertility thanks to their lush, full bloom and ability to produce a multitude of flowers.
- Transcendence: Their trumpeted blooms are sometimes seen as a symbol of spirituality and the act of striving towards betterment and higher states.
- Royalty and Majesty: The lily has long been associated with regal splendor and majesty due to its impressive stature and beauty in the garden.
- Wealth and Prosperity: Their grandeur and abundance have also made them emblems of wealth and prosperity.
- Passion and Desire: The vibrant color of 'Salmon Star' lilies, with their striking salmon-pink hues, can symbolize passion and intense desire.
- 30th Wedding Anniversary: Lilies are recognized as the traditional flower for celebrating 30 years of marriage.
WaterThe Salmon Star Oriental Lily prefers a consistent watering schedule, usually once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil conditions. It's essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as standing water can cause root rot. When watering, use a gentle flow to avoid disturbing the soil or damaging the plant. A good method is to water deeply, providing about 1 to 2 gallons per plant per week during the growing season. During the winter dormancy period, reduce watering frequency as the plant requires less moisture.
LightThe Salmon Star Oriental Lily thrives in full sun to partial shade, with a preference for at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. An ideal spot would be one where it can receive morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with hot summers. Avoid locations where buildings or other plants shade the lily for most of the day, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering.
TemperatureThe Salmon Star Oriental Lily performs best in temperatures that range between 60 to 75°F during the day and only slightly cooler at night. These lilies can withstand temperatures down to about 20°F once established but should be protected from hard freezes. The ideal growing conditions involve warm days and cooler nights, which help to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
PruningPruning Salmon Star Oriental Lilies is mainly to remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers, which encourages the plant to focus energy on new growth. Cut back the stems to the base after blooming has finished, usually in late fall. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flower heads, can be done throughout the blooming period. Pruning is not frequently needed, but doing so after blooming helps maintain a tidy appearance and promotes plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOriental Lily 'Salmon Star' thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. A good soil mix includes loamy garden soil, compost, and perlite for aeration. Amending with bone meal can encourage healthy root and bulb development.
RepottingOriental Lily 'Salmon Star' typically doesn't need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. When the bulbs multiply and crowd the pot, repotting every 3-4 years is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingOriental Lily 'Salmon Star' prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. High humidity can promote fungal diseases, so good air circulation around the plant is crucial to keep humidity in check.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and well-draining potting mix.
Outdoor
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny spot.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleLilium 'Salmon Star', commonly known as a type of Oriental lily, begins its life as a bulb planted in well-drained soil, usually in the fall or spring. Once planted, the bulb undergoes a period of dormancy, particularly if planted in the fall, waiting for the right temperature conditions to initiate growth. With the arrival of warmer weather in spring, it begins to sprout and develop a stem, leaves, and eventually flower buds. During the summer, the 'Salmon Star' blooms, displaying its distinctive salmon-pink flowers with a pronounced fragrance, attracting pollinators and potentially self-fertilizing or crossing with other lilies. After blooming, the plant enters a period of senescence where the leaves yellow and die back, and the plant directs energy back into the bulb to prepare for the next growth cycle. The cycle repeats annually, with the bulb lying dormant over the winter before re-emerging in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to autumn
The Lilium 'Salmon Star', also known as Salmon Star Oriental Lily, is usually propagated by dividing bulbs since it produces bulb scales that can be used for this purpose. Division is best done in the late fall after the foliage has died back or early spring before growth begins. Gently lift the bulbs from the soil using a spade, being careful not to cut or damage them. Separate the bulbs by hand, ensuring that each division has at least a couple of scales and some roots attached. Replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were growing before, which is typically with the top of the bulb about three inches (approximately 7.6 cm) below the soil surface. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method of vegetative propagation ensures the offspring will be genetically identical to the parent plant, maintaining its unique traits, such as the distinct salmon coloration of the flowers.
