Lovely Lilies
Know since ancient times, lovely Lilies continue to capture the imagination of people around the world. This beautiful flower today often symbolises purity, chastity and innocence. Although in popular culture people refer to many blossoms as “lilies,” true lilies all belong to the genus Lilium. They develop from bulbs and tend to produce large blooms.
Oriental Lilies feature large, fragrant blooms.
Profound Symbolism
Over the centuries, many people found the Lily inspirational. Probably one of the most famous discussion of Lilies occurs in the Sermon on the Mount, reported in Matthew 6:28-29: “And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”
Oriental And Asian Lilies
Oriental Lilies produce extremely fragrant blossoms. They prefer partial shade and remain a garden favourite. By contrast, bright Asiatic Lilies are known more for their wide array of colours than for aroma. Many Asiatic Lilies today are hybrids, developed to produce a rich display of vividly hued blooms. Over the years, flower growers have introduced a huge variety of Lily hybrids. The blossoms of many of the varieties possess delicate speckles
Colourful Asiatic Lilies enhance any garden or bouquet.
Popular Potted Plants
Gardeners enjoy growing Lilies from bulbs, yet may find them challenging to protect from insect pests. However, Lilies will prove to be a rewarding potted plant, if cared for properly. Lilium longiflorum, a long white Lily sometimes referred to as the “Easter Lily,” has achieved great popularity. This elegant flower ranks as the fourth most widely sold potted plant in the United States, behind Poinsettias, Mums and Azaleas.
Thoughtful Gifts
Their splendour and traditional association with virtue cause Lilies to remain an exceedingly appreciated gift item. These intricate, supremely elegant blossoms provide excellent corsages to wear to formal events. Floral bouquets of cut flowers often include Asiatic Lilies in order to add brilliant colour to an arrangement, while Oriental Lilies are added not only for their beauty, but for their ability to perfume an entire room with their intoxicating fragrance.
Sending Lilies remains a thoughtful gift idea. Due to their traditional association with profound spiritual qualities and their beauty, Lilies offer cheer to anyone recovering from an illness or the loss of a loved one. Lilies also make excellent presents in association with engagement announcements, weddings, births and anniversaries. As the Chinese proverb wisely states “If you have two loaves of bread, sell one and buy a Lily”, they will brighten any occasion.
