Thomson's Tulip Notholirion thomsonianum
ABOUT
Notholirion thomsonianum, also known as Thomson's Himalayan Lily, has a notable and striking appearance. This perennial plant is characterized by a bulb at its base, from which a number of slender, lance-shaped leaves emerge. The foliage is long and usually forms a tuft at the base of the stem. The leaves are a rich green color and may have a glossy or matte surface, adding a lush look to the plant. The most striking feature of Thomson's Himalayan Lily is its impressive flower spike. The spike is densely packed with numerous bell-shaped flowers, which create a showy display when in bloom. The flowers can vary in color from pale pink to rich purplish pink, often with darker spots or streaks on the petals. The individual blooms are arranged in a raceme, opening progressively from the bottom upwards. Inside each flower, you would typically find reproductive structures including stamens and a central pistil. The stamens may carry pollen, which is often a contrasting color to the petals and can add to the visual interest of the flower. Thomson's Himalayan Lily possesses a delicate beauty, and when in flower, it can become the focal point of any garden setting. The flowering period adds a sense of drama and a burst of color, drawing the attention of passersby and pollinators alike. After flowering, the plant may produce seed pods, which will eventually dry and release seeds for propagation. The overall form of Thomson's Himalayan Lily is elegant and well-proportioned, with a natural grace that can enhance a variety of landscapes. The combination of its attractive foliage and stunning floral display makes it a sought-after plant for gardeners looking to create a visual impact without concern for its size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae.
Synonyms
Thomson's Notholirion, Himalayan Lily.
Common names
Notholirion bulbuliferum, Lilium bulbuliferum.
ToxicityTo humans
Notholirion thomsonianum, commonly known as Thomson's Notholirion, does not have a widespread reputation for being toxic to humans. However, due to the sparsity of specific information regarding its toxicity, it is generally advisable to avoid ingestion of unknown or unverified plants. Many plants contain various levels of naturally occurring toxins as a defense mechanism against herbivores, and these can sometimes cause adverse reactions in humans. If a person ingested Thomson's Notholirion and it were toxic, potential symptoms of plant poisoning could include gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion of toxic plants can also lead to more serious symptoms, such as organ damage, neurological effects, or even death. It is important to exercise caution and seek professional medical advice if ingestion occurs and adverse effects are experienced.
To pets
Thomson's Notholirion does not have a well-documented toxicity profile for pets, which includes domestic animals like cats and dogs. Nevertheless, the general lack of information does not guarantee the plant is safe. If pets ingest a plant that has toxic properties, they may experience symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, loss of appetite, or lethargy. More severe toxicity can lead to symptoms such as tremors, seizures, or organ failure in extreme cases. Given the potential risks, it is important to keep Thomson's Notholirion and other unverified plants out of reach of pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, you should contact a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Himalayas
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Use: Notholirion thomsonianum, commonly known as Thomson's Tulip, adds aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes with its tall, attractive spikes of flowers.
- Erosion Control: The plant can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion on slopes due to its root structure.
- Habitat for Wildlife: It provides food and habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies which are attracted to its flowers.
- Biodiversity: Thomson's Tulip contributes to plant diversity in the areas where it naturally grows, supporting a variety of other plant and animal species.
- Seasonal Interest: It offers seasonal interest in gardens, particularly in spring when the flowers bloom, creating a colorful display.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant requires minimal care, making it suitable for low-maintenance gardening.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity - Notholirion thomsonianum exhibits antioxidant properties which may help in protecting cells from damage by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory effects - The plant has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation, which is a common factor in many diseases.
- Analgesic properties - There is evidence to suggest that Notholirion thomsonianum may have pain-relieving abilities.
- Antimicrobial activity - Some studies indicate that extracts from this plant may be effective against certain bacteria and fungi.
- Hepatoprotective potential - Research on Notholirion thomsonianum suggests it might have liver-protecting qualities.
- Antidiabetic effects - The plant may have properties that help in managing blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Anticancer potential - Preliminary studies have explored the possible anticancer effects of Notholirion thomsonianum, but more research is needed.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornamental Gardening: Notholirion thomsonianum, commonly known as Thomson's Notholirion, is often used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive blue or violet bell-shaped flowers.
- Flower Arrangements: The long-lasting blooms can be used in dried flower arrangements, adding a touch of natural beauty indoors.
- Natural Dyes: The pigments in the petals of this plant may be used in the extraction of natural dyes for coloring textiles.
- Garden Borders: Due to its erect nature, it can be planted along garden borders to create a structured look.
- Rock Gardens: It is well-suited to rock gardens, where its height can add dimension and contrast to low-growing alpine plants.
- Butterfly Gardens: The flowers of Notholirion thomsonianum attract butterflies, making it a suitable choice for butterfly gardens.
- Education and Research: It is sometimes used in botanical studies to educate students and researchers about bulbous plant species and their growth habits.
- Photography: The plant is a popular subject for nature photographers due to its striking blooms and seasonal changes.
- Screening: When planted in groups, Notholirion thomsonianum can provide a natural screen or backdrop for the garden.
- Culinary Experiments: In some cultures, flowers of certain Notholirion species (not for ingestion without proper knowledge) might be used as a unique garnish for culinary dishes, although this is not commonly practiced with Notholirion thomsonianum specifically.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiNotholirion thomsonianum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityNotholirion thomsonianum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Notholirion thomsonianum, commonly known as Thomson's Tulip, typically grows in harsh mountainous environments, symbolizing the ability to endure tough conditions and persevere.
- Adaptability: As this plant can adapt to different altitudes and climates, it represents versatility and the capability to thrive in varying circumstances.
- Beauty in Isolation: The exquisite blooms of Thomson's Tulip stand out in sparse mountain regions, symbolizing the idea that beauty can exist and even stand out more profoundly in isolation or desolation.
- Majesty and Nobility: With its impressive height and stature when compared to other high-altitude flora, Thomson's Tulip can be seen as a symbol of regal presence and dignity amidst a rugged landscape.
WaterFor Himalayan Lily, ensure even moisture during the growing season, watering the plant deeply but infrequently. A generous watering once a week should be sufficient, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Aim for about 1-2 gallons every week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During their dormant period in the winter, reduce watering significantly, only providing enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Overwatering can cause bulb rot, so always check the soil moisture before adding more water.
LightHimalayan Lily prefers full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would allow for morning sunlight with some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Ensure the plant receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimum growth and flowering.
TemperatureThe Himalayan Lily flourishes in temperatures that range between 60°F and 75°F during its growing season. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F and a maximum of 80°F. The bulb is dormant during winter and can withstand colder temperatures but should not be subjected to prolonged periods of frost or freezing conditions.
PruningPruning the Himalayan Lily is mainly for aesthetic purposes and to remove spent flowers or dead foliage. Prune back the flower stalks after blooming to direct energy back into the bulb. Generally, this plant requires minimal pruning, and it's best to do so in the fall, after the leaves have yellowed and died back naturally.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Himalayan Lily, a well-draining soil mix with high organic matter content is best, ideally with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0-7.0. Mix equal parts of loam, peat, and sharp sand or perlite.
RepottingHimalayan Lily should be repotted every 2-3 years during its dormant period to refresh the soil and accommodate growth.
Humidity & MistingHimalayan Lily thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, between 50-70%, but can tolerate standard indoor humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleNotholirion thomsonianum, more commonly known as Thomson's Notholirion, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates, typically requiring a period of cold dormancy to break seed dormancy. Upon sprouting, the plant develops a bulb, which serves as an energy reserve allowing it to survive in challenging conditions. The young plant grows leaves that photosynthesize to create nutrients, developing into a rosette. With maturity, Thomson's Notholirion sends up a flowering stalk during its blooming season, which is typically in the summer, producing clusters of pink to lilac flowers. After pollination, often by insects, the plant sets seed which is then dispersed to give rise to new plants. At the end of the growing season, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, and the bulb enters a period of dormancy until the next growing cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Notholirion thomsonianum, commonly known as Thomson's Notholirion, is typically propagated from seed. The best time to sow seeds is in the fall when temperatures are cooler, which aids in the stratification process this species often requires. After seeding, a cold period is utilized to break the seed dormancy, a process which can be mimicked by placing the seeds in a refrigerator for about three to four weeks. Once stratification is completed, the seeds are sown in a well-draining soil mix, ideally under glass to maintain humidity. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Germination can be slow and may take several months. Once seedlings have developed true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
