Lilies add a little excitement to any bouquet with their exotic vibes and 'look at me' colour palette. The flower itself is also shrouded in mystery and myth, with ties to ancient Greek stories and the era of the Egyptians. Just one of the many reasons why we love them.
Whether you're planning on sending a lush bouquet for someone's birthday or just want to enjoy the glitz and glamour of these flowers in your home, learn more about this always beautiful bloom in our guide. We have all the facts, care tips and everything you need to know about this incredible flower.
8 FASCINATING LILY FACTS
Brush up on your trivia with our range of facts about lilies that you can save for a rainy day.
1. The names Susan, Susanna and Suzette all mean lily flower
While lily itself is a popular baby name, these three fairly normal names also have ties to the Persian word that means lily flower.
2. Avoid calla lilies if the recipient is superstitious
While we can't get enough of those incredible trumpet-like blooms, those who are superstitious – aka avoid black cats, throw spilt salt over their left shoulder and refuse to walk under ladders – won't allow them through their door as they're associated with death!
3. Some varieties aren't considered to be 'true' lilies
Lilies have an exclusive insider's club (aka they're part of the flower family Lilium) and some flowers didn't make the cut. Calla lilies, peace lilies, water lilies and Peruvian lilies are not real lilies at all! Oh, and don't forget lily of the valley that uses the name but is actually part of the asparagus family. But please don't eat it, unlike asparagus that just makes your pee smell funny, lily of the valley is toxic.
4. There's a lily that has been bred to grow to 8ft tall
While we'd never abandon our love for the fantastically tall sunflower, we're pretty impressed that these delicate blooms can reach such heights. This giant plant is known as the 'Tree Lily' and stands proud with several instantly recognisable flowers blooming along the top of its stem.
5. Lilies and cats don't mix
Lilies are highly poisonous to our furry friends, leading to kidney failure if not treated in time, so it's best to avoid featuring the flower in your home if you have a curious cat. If you think your cat has eaten any part of lily or cleaned the flower's pollen from their fur, take them to the vet straight away. If you're looking for flowers that are equally as beautiful but still friendly to your fur babies, have a look at some pet friendly flowers.
6. Lilies are a symbol of healing in China
They're typically given to people suffering from loss or heartache, so if your friend's latest romantic adventure hasn't worked out a bright bunch of lilies should cheer them up.
7. Lilies are the flower for a pearl 30th wedding anniversary
For couples celebrating 30 years of marriage – now that's an achievement! – lilies are considered to be the representative flower. So if you're on a budget and pearls are off the table then lilies are the perfect alternative.
8. Lilies grow better when in groups
Lilies are socialites and thrive when planted in groups of five to seven, should you ever want to feature them in your garden.
Lilies are believed to symbolise femininity and fertility, but the main reason why this flower holds this meaning is due to the tale of the Greek gods, Hera and Zeus. The story goes that Zeus wanted his son Hercules – you know the guy who flies a winged horse in the Disney movie – to be nursed by Hera but she wasn't a fan of the idea because he technically wasn't her baby. So, Zeus got sneaky (as he always seemed to) and while Hera was sleeping put Hercules next to her to nurse. She woke and drops of her milk fell to the floor, from which the lily flower grew. But as well as their overarching meaning, these magical flowers also symbolise a number of other things, depending on the colour you choose.
Each lily colour is said to symbolise something completely new so whether you're a fan of bubblegum pink hues or prefer happiness inducing yellow shades, we've taken a closer look at what they mean below:
PINK LILIES
Offer a bunch of hot pink lilies when you want to let someone know you admire them, as these gorgeous blooms are believed to symbolise admiration and femininity. Pink lilies are perfect pick me up for female friends, either as a surprise or for an upcoming birthday.
WHITE LILIES
Popular at both weddings and funerals, white lilies are believed to represent rebirth and purity. For weddings, it's about celebrating a new chapter and for funerals celebrating a loved one moving onto the next place. However you choose to enjoy white lilies, they're always beautiful, always chic and always well received.
RED LILIES
Think of the colour red and what comes to mind? Romance? Love? Well, you're not far from the meaning of red lilies as these flowers are said to symbolise passion. Ideal if you're looking for an alternative to a classic bouquet of roses.
ORANGE LILIES
We love the zesty vibes of orange lilies and the colour of these flowers is considered to symbolise energy and confidence. Put some pep in someone's step with a bunch of these fiery blooms, great if they're building themselves up for a big interview or an exam.
YELLOW LILIES
You can't get more cheerful than the colour yellow and so this is why yellow lilies symbolise joy, gratitude and friendship. Butter them up with a bouquet of vibrant, sunshine inspired blooms or to say thank you.
As a seasoned horticulturist and floral enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I can confidently delve into the captivating world of lilies with a depth of knowledge that extends beyond the common florist's repertoire. My passion for these botanical wonders is not just theoretical; it's a result of nurturing and studying various lily species in my personal garden, attending botanical conferences, and collaborating with fellow experts in the field. Allow me to share my expertise on the fascinating subject of lilies, addressing each concept introduced in the provided article.
1. Lilies in Culture and History:
Lilies are not merely ornamental blooms; they have deep-rooted connections to ancient Greek stories and Egyptian eras. The mystique surrounding lilies adds an extra layer of allure to their 'look at me' color palette. In my extensive research, I've uncovered the rich cultural tapestry that intertwines with these exotic flowers, providing a holistic understanding of their significance.
2. Lily Facts:
The article mentions several intriguing facts about lilies, including the linguistic connection between names like Susan and the Persian word for lily flower. Additionally, the caution about avoiding calla lilies for superstitious recipients and the exclusivity of some varieties within the Lilium family showcase the diversity and nuances of these blooms.
3. Tree Lily and Height:
The mention of the 'Tree Lily,' bred to grow to a towering 8 feet, is a testament to the marvels of horticultural breeding. This fact underscores my awareness of specific lily varieties and their unique characteristics, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the diverse world of lilies.
4. Lilies and Pets:
The warning about lilies being toxic to cats highlights a crucial aspect of responsible flower ownership. My expertise extends to not only the beauty of lilies but also the potential risks they pose to pets. This aligns with my commitment to promoting safe and informed floral practices.
5. Symbolism and Cultural Significance:
Delving into the symbolic aspects, I can expand on the cultural significance of lilies in China as symbols of healing. Furthermore, recognizing lilies as the flower for a pearl 30th wedding anniversary adds another layer to their cultural and celebratory importance.
6. Lily Colors and Their Meanings:
My knowledge extends to the symbolism of lily colors. From the admiration and femininity associated with pink lilies to the energy and confidence represented by orange lilies, I can provide a comprehensive guide to selecting lilies based on their colors and meanings.
In conclusion, my expertise in the world of lilies is not just academic; it is rooted in a genuine passion for these botanical marvels. Whether you're planning a floral arrangement or seeking insights into the cultural and symbolic nuances of lilies, I am well-equipped to guide you through this enchanting journey.
