The daylily is an interesting perennial plant that takes its name from its edible flowers which typically last just one day, opening in early morning and withering that evening. Each day the flower is replaced by a new bloom from one of the numerous buds on each stalk and one of abundant stocks in each clump of plants.
Daylilies are low maintenance, easy to grow, long-lived and will bloom reliably for years with very little attention. The plants grow quickly in sun or shade, and are rarely bothered by insect pests or disease. Daylilies are not picky about soil and will grow in places that are too wet or too dry for other perennials. That said, daylilies do grow best in fertile, well drained soil.
Daylilies come in a rainbow of colors and bloom from midsummer to early fall with new blossoms opening each day. They are well-suited to many different uses in the garden and landscape including perennial borders and along fences and pathways. They pair nicely with ornamental grasses and small shrubs in group plantings and their lush foliage makes for a good backdrop for other flowers when not in bloom.
Originally published on July 3rd, 2018. Updated on June 29th, 2022.