Japanese Lily (Lilium speciosum Thunb.)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; prefers morning sun with afternoon shade in hot, arid regions to prevent leaf scorch

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Watering Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season; avoid waterlogging the bulb to prevent rot

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Temperature Hardy to -10°C during dormancy; optimal growing temperature 18–24°C

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Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, glossy medium green, arranged in whorls along the upright stem
Flower: Recurved, ruffled pink petals with dark crimson spots; nodding, fragrant blooms in terminal clusters
Bulb: Underground scaly storage bulb, enabling winter dormancy

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; apply mulch to retain moisture

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote leaf growth over flowering

Banana peel compost tea：Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations

Pruning

Remove spent flower heads to prevent seed formation and conserve bulb energy
Cut back yellowed foliage only after it has fully died back in autumn
Divide overcrowded bulb clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain blooming vigor

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Severely toxic; even small ingestions can cause acute kidney failure within 72 hours

Humans: Mild oral irritation, nausea, or vomiting if large quantities of bulb tissue are ingested

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Culture: Symbolizes purity and renewal in traditional Japanese horticulture

Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower for floral arrangements