In nature, many types of Epipremnum grow in tropical areas all over the planet, from southeast Asia to the western pacific.

In this article, you get to know more about Epipremnum species, their characteristics, and how to care for each type. So, keep scrolling.

How Many Epipremnum Species Are There?

Epipremnum is a stunning plant genus that doesn’t require much care to thrive. Although it can grow to reach over 130 feet in the wild, its size is much smaller when grown at home.

Most Epipremnum species have gorgeous variegated white or yellow patterns on their leaves. Moreover, the shape of their leaves varies depending on the species.

Typically, the genus “Epipremnum” or “pothos” has over 40 different infraspecies branching from 15 main species, which are:

1. Epipremnum aureum
2. Epipremnum amplissimum
3. Epipremnum pinnatum
4. Epipremnum silvaticum
5. Epipremnum papuanum
6. Epipremnum obtusum
7. Epipremnum nobile
8. Epipremnum moszkowskii
9. Epipremnum moluccanum
10. Epipremnum meeboldii
11. Epipremnum giganteum
12. Epipremnum falcifolium
13. Epipremnum dahlii
14. Epipremnum ceramense
15. Epipremnum carolinense

Types of Epipremnum

Whether in pots or hanging baskets, Epipremnum species are excellent indoor plants.

They’re also climbers and can survive in various lighting conditions. That’s why they’re quite popular.

The different species of the Epipremnum genus have many scientific and common names that can be hard to keep track of. However, you can easily tell them apart with a bit of practice.

Remember, all Epipremnum species are toxic to both humans and pets. So, take all necessary precautions when handling these types of plants.

Take a look at 12 of the most common Epipremnum plants to learn how to identify and take care of them.

1. Neon Pothos

Neon pothos is native to the Solomon Islands and is quite easy to care for. That’s why it’s one of the most popular house plants, especially for not-so-experienced gardeners.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’

Description and Characteristics

With heart-shaped leaves and vining growth habits, Neon pothos has bright green and yellow foliage that’s almost translucent.

Usually mistaken for Philodendron Hederaceum because of having the same leaf colors, Neon pothos is strikingly beautiful.

Leaf Size: Medium.

Growth Rate: Fast in optimal light conditions.

How To Care

As mentioned above, Neon pothos is a breeze to have at home. That’s because of the plant’s adaptability to various ranges of lighting conditions.

Moreover, Neon pothos can grow up to ten feet long, which is why they may need frequent pruning to keep them under control.

• Light: To maintain the vibrant colors of the plant’s foliage, keep your Neon pothos in a bright indirect light.
• Water: Being susceptible to root rot, Neon pothos needs to be in a well-draining pot. Moreover, allow the first two to three inches of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly.
• Temperature: This Epipremnum species thrive in warm weather. So, for a happy Neon pothos, keep the surrounding temperature between 55° and 90°F.
• Humidity: The average humidity is enough for Neon pothos to grow healthy. However, increasing the plant’s moisture with a pebble tray or humidifier encourages better growth.
• Soil: As long as the soil is moist and well-draining, your Neon pothos will be happy. Yet, if you want to create the perfect DIY soil, try combining perlite and orchid bark in the mix.
• Fertilizing: With organic soil, you might not need to add fertilizers for your Neon pothos. Nonetheless, fertilization is highly beneficial for the plant during active growing periods.

2. Jade Pothos

You can find Jade pothos in almost all garden centers, as it’s one of the most common Epipremnum species.

This particular plant has high resistance to underwatering, which makes it perfect for gardeners with the brownest thumbs.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘Jade’

Description and Characteristics
Jade pothos have no stripes or speckles on their small, narrow leaves. They’re just solid deep green in color with a shiny surface.

Having sturdy stems and thick leaves, you can never go wrong with adding a Jade pothos to your houseplant collection.

Leaf Size: Medium.

Growth Rate: Fast in optimal light conditions.

How To Care

Jade pothos are so forgiving that you can grow them in any room around the house, regardless of the light levels.

With vines growing to reach 30 feet long, Jade pothos is excellent to place on higher shelves. Remember to shake the vines occasionally, as they can get tangled.

• Light: Just like most Epipremnum species, Jade pothos prefers bright indirect light. That said, it can also do fine in dimmer conditions but not so much in extra bright areas.
• Water: Jade pothos can tell you when it needs water through droopy leaves. In all cases, it’s best to wait for the top two inches of soil to fully dry out before watering.
• Temperature: This plant enjoys warm weather between 65° and 80°F. Nevertheless, temperatures lower than 50°F can pose a problem for Jade pothos.
• Humidity: Although this plant loves humid weather, it does OK in your house’s ordinary humidity levels. For best growth, keep your Jade pothos in the kitchen or bathroom.
• Soil: Like all Epipremnum species, Jade pothos don’t like to have wet roots. So, make sure the plant sits in soil with excellent drainage.
• Fertilizing: Jade pothos can survive without fertilizers, but bi-monthly feedings promote vigorous growth. Make sure to use balanced, half-strength houseplant fertilizer.

3. Marble Queen Pothos

Another variation of the most popular houseplants is the Marble Queen pothos. Like a few other Epipremnum species, this plant doesn’t need much care or too frequent repotting.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘Marble Queen’

Description and Characteristics

Marble Queen pothos has stunning vining foliage with cream and white variegation, just like marble patterns.

It’s an excellent choice for a houseplant. That’s because, like many other Epipremnum species, it sits among the top air-purifying plants.

Leaf Size: Medium.

Growth Rate: Medium, but can grow quicker with enough light.

How To Care

Marble queen pothos is versatile and easy to grow. The plant also likes to be root bound, which is why you only need to repot your Marble Queen pothos once every couple of years.

Although Marble Queen pothos flower in the wild, it’s hard for them to do so when grown indoors. Either Way, their mesmerizing foliage is enough of a scene.

• Light: Avoid leaving your Marble Queen pothos in direct sunlight, as this can harm the plant. Like other pothos, it enjoys quite a bit of indirect sunlight.
• Water: Just like the case with all other Epipremnum species, Marble Queen pothos like their water. However, don’t water your plant unless the soil surface layer is dry enough.
• Temperature: Marble Queen pothos can’t tolerate low temperatures of 55°F and below. So, make sure to place your precious plant away from any air drafts.
• Humidity: The higher the humidity in the air, the more vigorous your Marble Queen plant grows. So, consider investing in an air humidifier or trying other methods.
• Soil: As long as the soil is well-draining, you shouldn’t worry about your Marble Queen pothos. Yet, it doesn’t hurt to make your own potting mix for your plant to thrive in.
• Fertilizing: For Marble Queen pothos, adding fertilizers is optional. If you prefer to do so, use a balanced liquid fertilizer every month during spring and summer.

4. Golden Pothos

This is the ultimate most available type of Epipremnum plant. Not only because it looks fascinating but also because it grows extremely fast.

So, whatever the conditions around your house, Golden pothos will likely survive them and grow just fine.

Name

Epipremnum aureum or devil’s ivy

Description and Characteristics

Golden pothos is easily distinguishable from other species because of the distinctive color patterns it has.

After all, those heart-shaped green leaves with a waxy texture and yellow variegations are rather hard to go unnoticed.

Leaf Size: Medium.

Growth Rate: Fast.

How To Care

Another cultivar of the Epipremnum genus, Golden pothos is just as easy to care for as other species.

This vining plant grows fast and long, especially in the wild. You can see it covering the forest floor and climbing over trees with the help of its aerial root system.

• Light: Too much direct sunlight can brown and burn the leaves of your Golden pothos. So, keep it away from that sunny window or install a light filter, like a sheer curtain.
• Water: Usually, it takes about one to two weeks for the top part of the soil to dry. Yet, expect to water your plant less often when in low lights and more often in bright areas.
• Temperature: Most house plants prefer to stay at the ordinary room temperature of between 65° and 85°F, and Golden pothos isn’t an exception.
• Humidity: Pothos can survive in dry air conditions. However, if you want to provide ideal weather for your precious plant, aim for 50–70% humidity.
• Soil: Pothos are easygoing and don’t have special soil requirements other than good drainage. So, mixing ingredients like perlite or lava rocks into the soil helps a lot.
• Fertilizing: Though intimidating at first, fertilizing your house plant doesn’t require much expertise. Allow your Golden pothos to rest from additives during fall and winter.

5. Global Green Pothos

This is a relatively new pothos species, and it’s somehow considered rare. As it grows in popularity, garden centers are starting to bring more of the Global Green pothos.

Developed in Japan, Global Green pothos are now easier to get than before.

Name

Epipremnum aureum Asaoka Second PPAF

Description and Characteristics

Global Green pothos has rounded green leaves with different shades of green variegations. Moreover, the texture of the leaves is crinkled.

The variegation splashes on Global Green pothos come in many shades, including olive-green, yellow-green, and bright green.

Leaf Size: Small.

Growth Rate: Medium.

How To Care

Although a fairly new introduction of plants in North America, Global Green pothos are just as easy to care for as other pothos.

When young, Global Green pothos can be perfect houseplants for side tables. Nevertheless, as they mature and become trailing, you can train them to grow upwards with the help of posts.

• Light: Global Green pothos tolerate low light but grow much faster in better lighting conditions. So, place it within three to four feet of an east-facing window.
• Water: When it comes to watering, treat your Global Green pothos like other species. Furthermore, make sure its roots never stay saturated in water for extended periods.
• Temperature: Cozy temperatures between 60° and 80°F are great for Global Green pothos to thrive. What’s more, avoid placing the plant where cold drafts pass.
• Humidity: In most homes or offices, Global Green pothos remain happy. Yet, if you’re after optimal growth and increased leaf size, try boosting the moisture in the air.
• Soil: Global Green pothos prefer similar soil conditions to those of tropical rainforests. So, a loose and well-draining potting mix is an excellent choice.
• Fertilizing: You can fertilize your plant more often than twice a year in the growing season. However, never exceed the recommended amount on the fertilizer packaging.

6. Snow Queen Pothos

The Snow Queen pothos is another variety of Epipremnum displaying stunning foliage variegations.

Like many other species, Snow Queen pothos look mesmerizing, which is why they make a perfect indoor plant in hanging baskets and planters.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘Snow Queen’

Description and Characteristics

This species is often confused with Marble Queen pothos for their similar color patterns. With more experience, you can differentiate between the two kinds.

You may be able to identify the Snow Queen pothos from its coloring, which is more variegated and whiter than the Marble Queen pothos.

Leaf Size: Medium.

Growth Rate: Slow.

How To Care

Though caring for Snow Queen pothos can slightly differ from other species, this is a straightforward variety of Epipremnum.

It’s also worth mentioning that this plant rarely flowers indoors, but it’s possible if you put your mind to it.

• Light: Highly variegated plants need plenty of indirect sunlight to maintain their vivid colors. Otherwise, the variegations begin to fade back to solid green.
• Water: Snow Queen pothos are drought resistant and show their need for water through soft and droopy leaves. Remember to cut back on watering during the plant’s dormancy.
• Temperature: You can grow Snow Queen pothos outside in some zones, but they’re not frost tolerant. So, keeping them indoors is ideal, preferably in temperatures of 65°–85°F.
• Humidity: Developing crispy edges means your plant needs humidity. Snow Queen pothos do well with adequate humidity levels, but bumping the moisture is a huge plus.
• Soil: A standard potting mix can suffocate the roots over time due to compaction. So, it’s better to add perlite and orchid bark to create an airy mixture for Snow Queen pothos.
• Fertilizing: Like many other pothos cultivars, add monthly liquid fertilizer to your Snow Queen pothos during summer and spring only.

7. Glacier Pothos

This species is a cultivar of Marble Queen pothos, and it looks stunning. Yet, the exact origin of it remains unclear.

Glacier pothos is a hardy plant that can withstand periods of neglect. Since it’s still growing in popularity, it might not be easily available in your local gardening center.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘Glacier’

Description and Characteristics

Though usually confused with other species, Glacier pothos is known for its silvery green leaves with white and mint green streaks.

The leaves on Glacier pothos are heart-shaped, leaning more towards being oblong. Due to its compact nature, this species makes a perfect addition to your coffee table or working desk.

Leaf Size: Small.

Growth Rate: Slow.

How To Care

Because it’s easy to keep alive, Glacier pothos is perfect for beginners as well as experienced plant enthusiasts. The plant doesn’t need special treatment to stay happy.

Don’t be alarmed if you don’t notice much growth, though. Glacier pothos is relatively slow-growing compared to other Epipremnum species.

• Light: Glacier pothos love to receive several hours of daily indirect sunlight. Unlike other pothos, this type doesn’t do well in low-lighting conditions.
• Water: Allow the plant’s soil to dry out between watering to avoid issues like root rot. Moreover, make sure your Glacier pothos pot has adequate draining.
• Temperature: This type also needs to stay in a warm place, ideally in temperatures of 65° to 75°F. Moreover, keep the plant away from cold drafts, as this might cause shock.
• Humidity: Place a humidifier near your plant or move the plant to the bathroom for ideal humidity. Otherwise, Glacier pothos does just fine in standard indoor humidity levels.
• Soil: A half-and-half mixture of soil and organic components achieves great balance for Glacier pothos growth. Perlite is a great addition to help keep the soil from compacting.
• Fertilizing: During active growing seasons (summer and spring), provide your Glacier pothos with a suitable liquid fertilizer. Once a month is an excellent rate.

8. N’joy Pothos

This delicate kind is a joy to look at and is widely loved in the gardening world for its beautiful foliage.

Just like Glacier pothos, N’joy pothos is also a cultivar of Marble Queen pothos. That’s probably why some people may confuse the two with each other.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘N’joy’

Description and Characteristics

The most distinguishable difference between N’joy and Marble Queen pothos is the foliage. N’joy pothos has smaller and thinner leaves.

Plus, the white and cream variegations are much more pronounced than those on Marble Queen, though quite similar in color.

Moreover, N’joy pothos has smaller spaces between leaf nodes than Marble Queen pothos.

Leaf Size: Small.

Growth Rate: One of the slowest among all varieties.

How To Care

Just like other Epipremnum genus variations, caring for N’joy pothos is simple. The plant enjoys similar conditions to its natural habitat in the rainforest.

As previously mentioned, N’joy pothos doesn’t grow as fast as its other relatives. So, don’t wait for it to crawl all over your house any time soon.

• Light: Just like in their native environment, N’joy pothos love to have plenty of indirect sunlight. Lower lighting conditions can cause this species to lose its variegations.
• Water: Stick your finger into the soil to check if it’s dry enough before watering thoroughly. Then, let the soil drain the excess water to avoid issues like root rot.
• Temperature: Epipremnum plants are used to high temperatures but do great in normal household conditions. So, keeping your house at over 65°F is perfect.
• Humidity: If you don’t have the resources to increase humidity for your N’joy pothos, don’t worry. It helps to keep it in a naturally humid room, like the kitchen or bathroom.
• Soil: Keep your N’joy pothos in an airy potting mix that can retain humidity while being able to drain excess liquids. Adding perlite to the soil is a great idea to achieve this.
• Fertilizing: Like most other Epipremnum species, applying liquid fertilizer monthly to your N’joy pothos is the way to go. Do so just during the active growing season.

9. Manjula Pothos

This is another rare patented variety of Epipremnum species, holding a noticeable resemblance to Marble Queen pothos.

Manjula pothos cultivar was discovered in 2010 by Ashish Arvind Hansoti, the Indian plant breeder.

Name

Epipremnum ‘happy leaf’ or Epipremnum aureum ‘Manjula’

Description and Characteristics

Manjula pothos has stunning heart-shaped leaves with amazing white, cream, and sometimes yellowish-green variegations.

Although the plant looks like Marble Queen pothos, Manjula pothos has wider and rounder leaves with ruffled edges.

Leaf Size: Medium.

Growth Rate: Slow.

How To Care

It might seem like a demanding plant to maintain, but Manjula pothos is easy to care for. It’s highly resilient and adaptable, making it a perfect houseplant.

You may need to fulfill some plant requirements to keep the foliage vibrant, but in the end, it shouldn’t be that hard of a task.

• Light: Manjula pothos can adapt to the poorest lighting conditions. Yet, to keep the variegation vivid, your plant needs plenty of indirect light.
• Water: Manjula pothos bounces back quickly if you forget to water it for a while. That said, be careful of overwatering without proper drainage, as it may harm the plant.
• Temperature: Typical household temperature is enough for the tropical Manjula pothos to thrive.
• Humidity: Manjula pothos grows more vigorously with high humidity levels around. So, investing in a humidifier has remarkable advantages when it comes to indoor plants.
• Soil: Plant your Manjula pothos in a well-draining, loamy potting mix that’s not overly compact.
• Fertilizing: Constant feedings every spring and summer helps your Manjula pothos grow healthier with captivating variegations.

10. Pearls and Jade Pothos

The Pearl and Jade pothos is one of the most splendid Epipremnum species in the market. It’s yet another patented variety from the popular Marble Queen pothos.

Scientists were able to develop this cultivar by exposing the Marble Queen pothos to gamma rays, which led to a kind of mutation in the plant’s tissues.

Name

Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’ or Epipremnum aureum ‘UFM12‘

Description and Characteristics

The Pearls and Jade pothos have much smaller and thinner leaves than other Marble Queen pothos cultivars.

It’s distinguishable by the stunning foliage featuring white-edged leaves with cream and white variegations covered by green streaks.

Leaf Size: Small.

Growth Rate: Slow.

How To Care

Pearls and Jade pothos are flowering plants. However, they rarely ever do when grown indoors. So, don’t expect to see any flowers from this slow-growing variety of Epipremnum.

What’s more, all the Marble Queen cultivars, including Pearls and Jade pothos, don’t tolerate poor lighting conditions.

Other than that, Pearls and Jade pothos are just like most of their cousins, easy to maintain and hard to kill.

• Light: To keep the beautiful variegations, Pearls and Jade pothos require several hours of bright indirect light exposure. 
• Water: Watering frequency for this plant changes year-round depending on the season. In warmer weather, you should water your Pearls and Jade pothos more frequently.
• Temperature: The warm temperature inside your house is perfect for this plant to thrive. Even outside, you can grow Pearls and Jade pothos if you live in USDA zone 9–12.
• Humidity: Pearls and Jade pothos require regular misting to adjust their humidity. So, placing them in naturally humid areas, like the laundry room or kitchen, is ideal.
• Soil: Rich, airy, and well-draining are three must-have qualities of soil for Pearls and Jade pothos. So, mix your ordinary indoor potting soil with airing ingredients, like perlite.
• Fertilizing: This Epipremnum species benefits from regular feedings using a balanced indoor plant liquid fertilizer.

11. Cebu Blue Pothos

This Epipremnum species got its name from the place where it originated, which is Cebu island in the Philippines.

Cebu Blue pothos is one of the unique varieties of Epipremnum pinnatum, and it’s literally an eye candy.

Name

Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Cebu Blue’

Description and Characteristics

Characterized by its thin blue-green leaves, Cebu Blue pothos is a splendid plant. Moreover, as it gets more mature, this plant’s leaves develop fenestrations.

Cebu Blue pothos is one of the most expensive Epipremnum kinds due to being somewhat rare to find.

Leaf Size: Small but gets slightly larger as the plant matures.

Growth Rate: Fast.

How To Care

Cebu Blue pothos is known to be a vigorous grower. Yet, it’s not challenging to care for, which is the perfect houseplant combination.

As the Cebu Blue pothos plant grows, it goes through two phases: juvenile and mature. When it’s still young, the leaves are thin, elongated, and blue-green.

On the other hand, when the plant is fully mature, the leaves grow larger and develop various holes on the surface (fenestration). That said, this only happens in plants growing outdoors.

Finally, with their intense growing patterns, Cebu Blue pothos need support to climb. So, using a moss pole is probably a good idea.

• Light: This is another type of Epipremnum plant that doesn’t do well in low light. Therefore, try to place it in an area receiving medium to bright indirect light.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry before watering, and avoid overwatering your Cebu Blue pothos during the colder months of the year.
• Temperature: Like almost all species of Epipremnum, Cebu Blue pothos do reasonably well in the warm indoors.
• Humidity: If you want to witness that vigorous growth and have a bushy house plant, keep the surrounding air extra humid. So, keep a humidifier nearby for the best results.
• Soil: Mixing one part perlite and one part orchid bark with one part potting mix makes the perfect draining soil for Cebu Blue pothos.
• Fertilizing: During the warmer months of spring and summer, add liquid fertilizer to your plant. Just like all pothos varieties, cut back on the feedings during winter and fall.

12. Dragon’s Tail Pothos

Dragon’s Tail pothos is another type of plant that changes the shape of its leaves as it matures. Furthermore, it’s a cultivar of the Epipremnum pinnatum genus.

This crawling plant is a must-add to your houseplant collection due to its fascinating appearance.

Name

Epipremnum pinnatum or the Centipede Tongavine

Description and Characteristics

Dragon’s Tail pothos have long elliptical deep green leaves when young. After maturing, this plant’s leaves morph and develop fenestration.

With its thick fleshy stems, Dragon’s Tail pothos is a great plant to own.

Leaf Size: Small but gets slightly larger as the plant matures.

Growth Rate: Fast in optimal light conditions.

How To Care

Dragon’s Tail pothos are low-maintenance plants. When cared for properly, this plant can grow up to one foot per year.

Having said that, in low lights, Dragon’s Tail pothos can become leggy and reduce in size.

• Light: Place your pothos plant within a few feet from a sunny window, but keep it away from direct sunlight.
• Water: Keep a regular watering routine with the weather changes in mind. So, water your Dragon Tail’s pothos more frequently when the temperature is warmer.
• Temperature: This tropical plant can withstand temperatures up to 95°F. However, the ideal temperature for Dragon’s Tail pothos is between 65° and 85°F.
• Humidity: In terms of humidity, Epipremnum species aren’t too fussy. Yet, to encourage growth, keep the surrounding humidity levels at over 50%.
• Soil: As is the case with all the above-mentioned species, your Dragon’s Tail pothos should be happy in soil that retains moisture but drains properly.
• Fertilizing: Dragon’s Tail pothos don’t require nourishment during dormancy, but a balanced organic fertilizer during the warmer months is an excellent idea.

What Are the Most Popular Epipremnum Types?

As mentioned above, the Epipremnum contains multiple species. Although telling them apart can be confusing at times, some types are more popular than others.

The main feature distinguishing an Epipremnum from the other is its foliage. Some pothos have dark foliage, while others have bright-colored leaves.

Additionally, you notice all the different variegations between various species, like white speckles, marbly patterns, or yellow spots.

All these differences make some species more loved by plant enthusiasts than others. The four most popular types of all Epipremnum plants are:

• Golden pothos
• Marble Queen pothos
• Neon pothos
• Pearl and Jade pothos

FAQs

Q1: What’s the difference between Epipremnum and Scindapsus?

While the two genera aren’t easily distinguishable from each other, there’s a huge difference between them.

The difference lies in the number of seeds each genus produces. Epipremnum species have a few ovules in each ovary, but Scindapsus species have only one.

The seeds of Scindapsus species are kidney-shaped, and the leaves are matte green, unlike Epipremnum’s glossy foliage.

Q2: What are the most common problems Epipremnum plants have?

If you notice your Epipremnum plant isn’t doing fine, it’s probably due to a problem of overwatering or underwatering.

Underwatering can cause droopy leaves and stunted growth. It’s also one of the main reasons for flower loss and yellowing foliage.

Overwatering can also cause the same problems. However, the most serious issue to worry about is root rot.

Note that although too much light can hurt your Epipremnum, too little of it can cause it to lose its amazing variegations.

Q3: How to repot Epipremnum?

Although not frequently needed, there comes a time when you might want to repot your Epipremnum.

Even if you want to keep it in the same pot, trimming the roots of your Epipremnum now and then allows room for healthier growth.

So, if you notice signs like the roots poking out of the drainage holes or wilting leaves, it’s time to repot your Epipremnum. Here’s how to do it.

1. Remove the plant from the pot
2. Shake off excess soil and detangle the roots
3. Trim off any damaged roots
4. Fill the new container up to the middle of it with fresh potting mix
5. Put your Epipremnum in the pot
6. Fill the remaining gaps with soil
7. Water the plant thoroughly

A Final Thought

The tropical vining Epipremnum is a great houseplant to have. Not only because it’s easy to maintain but also for how gorgeous it looks.

There are many types of Epipremnum, and the two most popular of all are Epipremnum aureum and Epipremnum pinnatum.

These two types include the famous pothos we all know and love, like Neon, Golden, and Marble pothos.

Now that you know how each species looks and what requirements it has, it’s time to get one of your own. It’s always a delight to have an Epipremnum in your house.

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The post 12 Types of Epipremnum appeared first on Garden and Plant Care.

After all, there are so many varieties out there, which makes it hard to know what you’re looking at or what it’s called. Fortunately, that’s why we’re here!

In today’s guide, we’ll share what Epipremnum plants are, their history, how to care for them, and much more.

So, go get your gardening gloves and let’s get started!

Quick Summary

Epipremnum plants are a genus of tropical evergreen perennial plants that belong to the Araceae family. They’re known for their attractive foliage and their peculiar ability to climb walls and other surfaces. 

You can find this plant in offices, malls, and homes because of its attractive appearance and easy care requirements. It doesn’t require constant monitoring, and it adds a tropical vibe to any space to boost.

Most people easily confuse it with other plants in the Araceae family, like the satin pothos and the mini Monstera.

What Are Other Names?

As the name Epipremnum is essentially the name of the genus of this flowering plant, there aren’t any other names for it.

However, the different plants within this genus have other names, such as Epipremnum amplissimum, Epipremnum pinnatum, and Epipremnum aureum.

In total, there are about 43 species within the Epipremnum family, but only 15 are accepted and given scientific names.

Where Are Epipremnum Plants From?

Epipremnums are native plants to the tropical forests in China, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asia in general. You could also find them in Australia and the western Pacific.

However, if you’re looking for a particular species, you might have to research more to narrow its origin. 

Description and Characteristics

As we’ve already mentioned, Epipremnums are a beautiful and diverse family. Yet, what you know so far is hardly enough to allow you to identify one. So, let’s get into the specifics!

What Is the Physical Description of Epipremnum Plants?

Since Epipremnum plants don’t all look alike, it’s hard to describe their physical appearance clearly.

Nonetheless, there are some things that you can expect to see on an Epipremnum. For starters, most of these plants have glossy, thick leaves that shine whenever there’s light around. 

Also, though you won’t feel any residue on your hand after touching it, there’s a softness to the leaves that makes them feel almost buttery.

Most of their leaves are also variegated. This means you’ll find multiple colors within the same leaf! It could be streaked with white, cream, or even silver or splotchy with numerous shades of green and yellow.

A wild Epipremnum plant, like an Epipremnum aureum, for example, can grow up to 66 ft (20 m)! 

Yet, chances are, you’ll see this plant inside, which means it’ll be much shorter— around 6.5 Ft (2 m) if given the proper support and care.

Lastly, most Epipremnum plants have heart-shaped or elongated leaves, depending on the species.

What Are the Characteristics of Epipremnum Plants?

Certain characteristics set Epipremnum plants apart from other household plants. These include:

1. Its Unique Foliage 

Epipremnums usually have long, elongated, or heart-shaped leaves that capture attention with their bright colors and distinctive shapes.

As we’ve mentioned, the colors and patterns vary, making the foliage unique to each plant. Also, the leaves are almost always thick and glossy green with a leathery texture.

2. Quirky Growth Habits

An exciting thing about Epipremnums, their growth is only limited by your care and their pot! Simply put, some species only need a trellis to grow up to three feet! 

On the other hand, if you want to keep them small, you can limit them to a small pot or hang them from a basket. In either case, the plant will grow according to your care and space.

3. It’s Evergreen

Earlier on, we explained that Epipremnum plants are evergreen, but what does that mean? Well, it means that no matter what time of the year, you’ll always find some green leaves on this plant! 

This is mainly because, unlike other plants, Epipremnums don’t shed their leaves in winter to prepare for the season. Instead, they keep their leaves throughout multiple seasons and only shed when distressed.

4. Easy to Care For

If there’s one thing that plant enthusiasts appreciate about this plant, it’s its low-maintenance requirements. Some species, like the Epipremnum aureum, are almost neglect-proof!

You can forget about watering it until it almost dries—please avoid that, though—and it’ll still survive! 

5. Adaptable

Another characteristic that makes these plants perfect for beginners is their adaptability to their environment. 

For instance, species such as the Epipremnum aureum can survive low-light conditions even though they’re not native to low-light areas.

You’ll only notice that some leaves might lose some of their green colors and turn white. However, they won’t die.

Moreover, Epipremnums can survive in environments with low humidity—we don’t recommend that, though, as these plants love humid areas and will thrive in them.

6. Climbs

Last, one key feature of these plants is that their roots allow them to be excellent climbers! This means once you get them to grow in a proper space, they’ll start growing and climbing around the surfaces near them. 

Many people love this trait as it gives their home a tropical feel that not many plants can accomplish.

How Do Epipremnum Plants Look?

By combining the last two segments, you get something that looks like a tropical rainforest in your home! 

Epipremnum plants look like a jungle of green leaves and vines growing on top of each other. And depending on what species you’re looking at, the colors and shapes can differ. 

However, you can always expect an Epipremnum to have long, thick leaves that feel leathery. Some of them are also glossy, giving them a beautiful sheen in the light.

Lastly, most—if not all—Epipremnums rarely flowers indoors. So, if you see one around, there’s a chance it’s not an actual Epipremnum.

Popular Epipremnums

When it comes to Epipremnum plants, there are many different varieties! Some of the most popular ones include the following:

1. Golden Pothos

Also known as the devil’s ivy or hunter’s robe, the golden pothos is probably the most popular Epipremnum plant today. 

They’re known for their heart-shaped leaves and beautiful variegated patterns. Golden pothos has vibrant, glossy green leaves with yellowish streaks that almost look like brush strokes.

2. Marble Queen Pothos

Another popular Epipremnum is the marble queen pothos. This plant resembles the golden pothos, except its variegated leaves lean more toward white than gold.

It also has a relatively slow growth rate, making it easy to care for.

3. Neon Pothos

Unlike the previous two options, neon pothos plants don’t have any patterns on the leaves. Instead, they have bright neon green leaves that stand out from other pothos plants.

Plus, the solid color allows the heart-shaped leaves to be easily seen and appreciated. Lastly, As the plant ages, the foliage tends to get darker, which creates a nice contrast with younger leaves.

History

Now that we’ve discussed the most popular Epipremnum plants, let’s examine this genus’s history.

What Is the History and Uses of Epipremnum?

The history of  Epipremnum plants is a wild and confusing one. You see, Epipremnums, commonly called pothos, have undergone many name changes and classifications since they entered the scientific community. 

This is because the genus’ similarities made people think they were the same species. 

However, as time passed, we discovered that what was once a single species was actually a group of related plants.

In 1880, scientists named this plant the pothos aureus and, a few years later, moved it to the genus Scindapsus. 

Of course, this didn’t last very long because it was soon discovered that the pothos wasn’t related to the true Scindapsus. Instead, this plant was a variety of Epipremnums.

Unfortunately for this little genus, the confusion continued for a few years, and many species were mixed up. 

Today, though, Epipremnums have been sorted out, and the species are all separated.

Hence, we’ve been able to use some of these species to our advantage. For instance, traditional medicine uses Epipremnum pinnatum to help with rheumatism, dysentery, and fractures.

Other pothos, like the Epipremnum aureum, can purify the air in its surrounding environment from toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde. 

This, coupled with the fact that pothos can increase humidity in a room, can help relieve the discomfort and symptoms of allergies.

What Are Epipremnums Cultivated For?

People primarily cultivate Epipremnums for ornamental purposes because of their unique foliage and easy-to-care-for nature. 

They’re a popular choice for beginners and people who simply want a houseplant that doesn’t require much effort.

Moreover, some Epipremnums are cultivated for their medicinal properties, such as Epipremnum pinnatum, which can help with various ailments such as skin diseases, rheumatism, and dysentery.

Other Epipremnums, like the golden pothos, are used for their phytoremediation abilities which help clean their surrounding environment from pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.

What Do People Associate Epipremnum To?

In general, people associate Epipremnums—especially Epipremnum aureum— with a variety of things. Here are the most common ones:

1. Luck and Fortune

The most famous association people have for Epipremnums is luck and financial gain. It’s said that having golden pothos in your home can help you achieve more in life and attract good fortune.

2. Healing

Another association with Epipremnum is that it removes dark energy from the unused parts of your home. This is why it’s often used in feng shui.

3. Perseverance

Lastly, because most Epipremnums are low-maintenance and can survive long periods of neglect, they’ve been used to symbolize perseverance.

This could also be because most of these plants can survive in low-light environments, unlike others.

What Are Common Types of Epipremnum Plants?

We’ve already mentioned three popular Epipremnum: the golden pothos, the marble queen, and the neon pothos.

However, there are many other common species you can choose from, including the following:

1.  Manjula Pothos

The manjula pothos is much like the marble queen pothos regarding the beautiful coloration. However, its leaves are much rounder, making the pothos look more delicate.

2. Global Green Pothos

The global green pothos was once a rare Epipremnum species. Nonetheless, the plant has become more popular because of its lush foliage and deep green shades.

3. Glacier Pothos

This plant is a bit of a mystery as its origins are unknown. However, we know it’s a great choice if you want to add a splash of color to any room! The glacier pothos has a beautiful white, gray, and green coloration, giving it a unique look.

Before You Go: Final Tips to Help Grow Epipremnum Plants

While Epipremnums are generally easy to care for, there are some things that you should keep in mind to help your plant thrive:

• Water your Epipremnums once every one or two weeks or as soon as the soil dries out
• Use fertilizers every two months at least to promote healthy foliage growth 
• Keep your Epipremnums in bright but indirect sunlight—direct light can scorch their leaves!
• Add a humidifier next to your Epipremnums to make them happy!

FAQs

Now that you know almost everything there is to know about Epipremnum plants, let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions:

How to Care For Epipremnum Plants?

Taking care of your Epipremnums is relatively straightforward. All you have to do is follow this list:

• Water your Epipremnums when the soil feels dry to the touch
• Place them in a location that provides bright, indirect sunlight
• Keep the room temperature around 68° F to 80° F
• Add a small humidifier to get the humidity level up to 70%— the pothos preferred level
• Prune your plant as soon as you spot any dead or dying leaves

Do Epipremnum Plants Flower?

In the wild, you might encounter a flowering Epipremnum or two. However, indoors, they rarely flower.

How Long Do Epipremnum Plants Live For?

Epipremnums are perennials, which means that they live for several years. Generally, they could last for almost ten years.

What Soil Should I Use?

Epipremnums do well in well-draining soils. For example, you could use a soil mix made of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Can I Use Fertilizer?

You can use fertilizers to help your Epipremnums grow faster and stronger. However, you’ll need to study your plant first, determine the species, and then look for the best fertilizer type.

How Much Sun Do Epipremnum Plants Need?

Almost all Epipremnums do well in bright, indirect sunlight. However, they can survive in low-light conditions and even under fluorescent lights.

Are Epipremnum Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Epipremnum plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and humans. In fact, it’s best if you keep this plant out of reach of your pets and children.

Final Words

So, what are Epipremnum plants? To give you a quick recap, these beautiful plants are perennial evergreens that have some of the most beautiful foliage you’ll ever see.

Some have golden strokes, while others have wide white and silver splotches on their leaves. What’s more, most Epipremnums have unique heart-shaped leaves. 

We use some species for medicinal purposes, while others are prized for their beauty. 

In the end, these plants are definitely worth getting if you’re thinking about adding some color to your home.

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The post What Are Epipremnum Plants? appeared first on Garden and Plant Care.

Yet one thing that all Aglaonema plants have in common is that they’re among the prettiest indoor plants!

Aglaonema, also known as Chinese evergreen, is a flowering plant from the Araceae family that many people keep as an indoor plant. This is because Aglaonemas are easy to care for, making them great for beginners!

So, in today’s article, we’ll share with you the best soil for Aglaonema plants, the best way to water them, and other tips that’ll help you keep your plant happy.

Let’s begin!

Why Make Your Own Aglaonema Soil?

This is an excellent question to ask as there are many options available in the market for you to choose from. Well, there are several reasons why you should consider making your Aglaonema soil, including the following:

1. Customization 

The first and most obvious reason to create your Aglaonema soil is that it allows you to customize it to suit your plant’s needs. 

For example, you can choose how acidic or alkaline the soil is; you can adjust the number of nutrients or add some extra ingredients to help your plant’s growth.

This can be particularly useful if your plant suffers from health issues or you can’t find suitable soil. 

2. Cost-Effective

Creating your own Aglaonema soil allows you to create a product that’s both suitable for your plant and affordable. This is because you’ll control what goes into the soil while considering the cost. 

Moreover, most of the ingredients that go into the soil mix, like peat moss or vermiculite, are relatively cheap compared to commercial soil mixes.

Also, let’s not forget you can bulk-buy the ingredient to save even more money!

3. Environmental Friendly

Do you know how much packaging goes into commercial soil mixes? Quick hint: it’s a lot!

For every purchase, you’ll find at least one plastic bag with the soil inside and a large container—usually cardboard—that holds the bag itself.

Hence, every purchase you make at the store contributes to an already large pile of waste. 

Plus, if you decide to order this online or have it delivered to your home, you’ll be contributing to the carbon footprint of the shipping.

So, an easy way to avoid all these problems and help our little planet is by making your organic soil mix at home.

Aglaonema Soil Characteristics

Even though this plant isn’t very demanding, it doesn’t mean you can use any soil and expect it to grow! 

It just means that it’s not too picky about the medium and mainly requires the following soil characteristics:

1. Peat-Based

To give your Chinese evergreen a healthy environment, you must provide peat-based soil!

Essentially, peat soil results from years and years of organic matter—such as plants and animals—decaying near bogs or peatlands. 

It doesn’t contain any nutrients, but it’s lightweight, an essential characteristic of Aglaonema soil.

2. Slightly Acidic

Most plants thrive in a soil with a 6.5–7.5 pH level. However, Aglaonema prefers more acidic soil with a 5.6–6.5 pH range. 

This is because it enables them to access and absorb more nutrients from the soil, such as nitrogen, manganese, and iron. 

3. Lightweight and Well-Draining

Finally, Aglaonema soil must be lightweight to allow the water and air to flow smoothly to the roots. 

This is especially important as Aglaonemas plants have a shallow root system, making them easily susceptible to root rot.

What Do Aglaonemas Need?

As mentioned, Aglaonemas are the perfect plants for beginners as they’re easy to care for. In fact, they only require the following:

1. Bright Indirect Sunlight

Originally, Aglaonemas could be found in the tropics and subtropics of New Guinea and Asia. Hence, this little plant likes sunlight but not direct one! 

So, be careful with its placement, as strong sunlight can easily scorch its leaves. However, this doesn’t mean you should place it in a dark corner either, as this can result in pale and yellowish leaves.

2. Moderately Warm Temperatures

As mentioned above, because this plant is native to the tropics, it prefers warm temperatures. Hence, Chinese evergreens thrive in temperatures between 70°–80° F. 

The temperature shouldn’t drop more than 10 degrees at night, though.

3. Watering

There’s no specific schedule that we can recommend for watering your Aglaonema. This is because you’ll need to water it as soon as you notice that the topsoil—or 50% of the soil volume—is dry. 

This can happen in as little as three days or maybe a bit more, so you must be vigilant with your watering!

4. Humidity

While Aglaonemas can survive in low humidity, they absolutely thrive in highly humid environments.

If you can get the humidity levels around your Aglaonemas up to 70%, you’ll notice they look healthier and happier.

5. Well-Draining Soil

Last but not least, Aglaonemas need well-draining soil to grow in. If your soil doesn’t drain water well, you’ll see your plant turning a sad shade of yellow or even developing root rot.

What Do You Need to Make the Best Aglaonema Soil?

The best Aglaonema soil is nutrient-rich, well-draining, and acidic! So, to make the best soil, you’ll need to mix the following ingredients: 

• Peat: Basically, this is the base for your potting mix. It’s lightweight, porous, and helps retain moisture
• Perlite: This is a volcanic glass that you can add to the soil to help with aeration, drainage, and water retention
• Vermiculite: This is another mineral that helps prevent waterlogging
• Pine Park (optional): You can add this ingredient to help with drainage and aeration, as well as add more organic matter to the soil
• Fertilizer (optional): If you think your Aglaonema needs a little boost in its growth, you can add fertilizer to the soil
• Sulfur (optional): If the soil is too alkaline for your liking, you can add sulfur to help lower the pH level

You may have noticed that half of the items on this list are labeled as “optional,” which can seem odd. 

However, Aglaonema requirements are minimal and can be satisfied with only three ingredients in the soil.

How to Make Your Own Aglaonema Plant Soil?

Making your own Aglaonema soil is very easy! All you need is the following components:

• Peat 
• Perlite
• Vermiculite 

After you’ve gathered your ingredients, mix equal parts of all three components in a large container. Then, start adding water slowly while mixing the soil. 

When the soil starts holding itself together, stop adding water. Remember to adjust the soil’s pH level to meet Aglaonema’s 5.6–6.5 pH requirement. Once you’ve achieved the correct pH, you can transfer the soil to the pot and plant your sweet Aglaonema!

Storing Your Leftover Aglaonema Plant Soil

Sometimes you find yourself with a little more soil than your pot can hold. So, to store those leftovers properly, here’s what you need to do:

1. Use an Airtight Container

After planting your Aglaonema, let the leftover soil dry, then move the mix into an airtight container. 

You could use whatever that’s available, like a Tupperware container or mason jar. Just ensure the container is tight enough to prevent any potential bugs or moisture.

2. Keep It in a Cool Place

Though you may think the soil is safe in that airtight container, you should keep it in a cool, dry place. 

Excess moisture can leave you with moldy soil that’s harmful to your plant and you.

3. Use It Within a Year

As time goes on, the nutrients in the soil will start to break down. So, it’s best to use your soil within a year or less so your plant can still get all the nutrients it needs.

Benefits of Making Your Own Potting Mix for Aglaonema

We’ve already discussed three advantages of making your potting mix for Aglaonema: customization, affordability, and waste control.

However, there are a couple more benefits to keep in mind:

1. Quality Control

One of the best things about making your own potting mix is that you can be sure of every little ingredient you use. 

You know where the peat is from, what fertilizer you’re using, and you’ll even know the amount of water in the mix. Hence, you can rest assured that your potting mix is of excellent quality.

2. Better Drainage and Aeration

The key to growing a healthy and happy Aglaonema is to provide it with well-draining soil that allows for good aeration. And even though there are commercial soils that promise to do this, they don’t consistently deliver.

Thankfully, a good homemade potting mix ensures you provide your plant with the best drainage and aeration possible.

3. Chemical Free

Finally, when creating your mix, you can ensure it’s free of any chemicals or additives that might affect your plant. 

Many commercial soil mixes have pesticides or chemical fertilizers that can do more harm than good. However, you can have complete control over what goes in and make an all-natural organic mix if desired.

FAQs

Now that you know why it’s better to make your aglaonema soil, let’s answer some frequently asked questions:

What’s the Best Soil Mix for Aglaonema?

The best soil mix for Aglaonema is a mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite. These three components allow for good drainage while simultaneously allowing moisture retention.

How Do You Make Aglaonema More Healthy?

To ensure your Aglaonema is healthy, you can follow this small checklist:

• Make sure it’s getting proper watering
• Keep an eye out for pests
• Increase the humidity level in its environment
• Check the pot’s placement and how close/far it is from the sun

How Often Should I Repot My Aglaonema?

You should repot your Aglaonema plant once every two years. This allows you to remove any dead roots and give it a fresh start.

Quick Recap

So, are you still wondering what’s the best soil for Aglaonema? Hopefully not!

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, Aglaonemas love slightly acidic, well-draining, and well-aerated soil. They also love high humidity levels and indirect sunlight.

If you can give your Aglaonema these little things, you’ll have a healthy plant that’ll live for decades!

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The post The Best Soil for Aglaonema appeared first on Garden and Plant Care.

Either way, one thing remains the same: the Aglaonema is one of the most beginner-friendly houseplants out there.

That said, some tips can help you figure out how to care for Aglaonema plants like a pro. That’s what we’ll go over in this post, so stick around!

What Are Aglaonema?

Aglaonema (pronounced ah-glah-oh-NAY-mah) is a genus of perennial plants from the family Aracea, native to Asian subtropical forests.

Interestingly, the name can be split into two parts: aglaos and nema. The first means bright, and the second means thread.

What’s thread-like? Well, the plant’s flower has rope-like stamens. So, that could explain the name.

Besides the spathe flowers, Aglaonema actually has more of the family’s characteristic features. For instance, if you’ve ever raised other arum family plants, like Monstera, you’ll recognize the iconic lanceolate leaves right away!

Quick Summary of Caring Tips for Aglaonema

In a rush? Check out these key tips:

• Keep all Aglaonemas out of direct light, but give the variegated varieties more sun time.
• Use fertilizers once a month during spring and summer.
• Don’t expose the arum to cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F.
• Water the Chinese Evergreen only when the topsoil is dry.
• Prune the inflorescences to boost leaf growth.
• Use pebble trays or humidifiers to maintain a micro-climate of humidity.

Growing and Caring

Aglaonema’s natural habitat is dense rainforest forests. So to get the plant to thrive, you’ll have to mimic the hot, humid conditions.

Don’t let that intimidate you; the species is forgiving.

How to Plant Aglaonema?

You can get a fully established Aglaonema from most nurseries. Then, you’ll have two options: plant the arum indoors or outdoors.

Outside, the tropical plant works best as a low hedge or a filler plant. To boost the ornamental aspect of it all, some people keep their Chinese Evergreen as a potted plant on their patios.

Speaking of pots, you can always grow your Aglaonema indoors. A 5–6 inch pot will do the trick as long as it has drainage holes.

How do you decide between growing indoors and outdoors, you ask?

Well, the temperature is a crucial factor here. Ideally, Aglaonema plants are cold-hardy in USDA zones 10–11. Once the temperature drops below 50°F, the flowering plant is at risk and could die.

So, if you live somewhere colder, you might want to move the pot inside since room temperature (70–80°F) works well for the genus.

If you decide to keep the arum as a houseplant, you’ll need to confirm that you have enough room for it first. It won’t go as high as a rubber tree or a bird of paradise, but it could spread 1–3 feet. Note that window sills might not work since cold drafts wither the leaves.

The best part about keeping your Aglaonema indoors? It’ll help purify the air of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene. That’s a double win in our books!

How to Grow Aglaonema?

Once you figure out where you’ll put your Aglaonema, tackling the care routine shouldn’t be a tough feat. After all, it made it to Consumer Reports’ list of 7 low-maintenance plants for combating winter blues for a reason!

Let’s take a closer look at this arum beauty’s water, soil, light, and pruning needs.

Water

There’s no fixed watering schedule to go by. Instead, you have to check the soil and water as needed.

Yet, the main perk that makes Aglaonema beginner-friendly is drought tolerance. Even if it goes three weeks without a splash of water, the plant could still make it—not that you should neglect it.

Usually, the plant needs a top-up when the soil’s surface (1–2 inches) is dry to the touch. However, if you have a particularly large pot, you might want to wait until more of the soil’s bulk is dry.

Depending on where you live, this could mean watering the Aglaonema deeply every week or every other week. When we say deeply, we mean pouring water until you see excess fluid going out of the pot’s drainage holes.

However, once winter rolls in, you’ll have to cut back on the frequency to avoid overwatering. Even then, it’s crucial that you don’t leave the plant until the soil dries out completely.

Soil

Thankfully, Aglaonema plants aren’t picky when it comes to soil. Whether you prefer clay, loam, or sand, you can make it work for this arum beauty.

The main requirements that you’ll have to consider are acidity and drainage.

Drainage is a no-brainer for any houseplant; you’ve got to make sure the soil has a place to let out excess water, or else the roots will rot!

To boost drainage capacity, you can add perlite to your peat-based mix. Perlite’s granular nature will keep the soil structure loose. Plus, it happens to be highly porous and capable of soaking in any extra water from the substrate around it!

What about the acidity?

As it happens, Aglaonema plants like their soil slightly acidic, with a pH that’s only a bit below 6.0. So, you’ve got to keep those acidic cations in mind when you’re picking a potting mix.

It’s also worth noting that the Aglaonema isn’t the only member of the arum family that prefers acidic soil; the popular Monstera and Philodendron share this aspect as well.

Sun Light

Aglaonema plants, in general, aren’t huge fans of direct light. In fact, their leaves scorch off easily. So, for a start, you’ll want to shelter it from the noon sun.

The tricky part is that not all Aglaonemas are created equal; some tolerate (and even need!) more sunlight than others. One way to judge how much light your Chinese Evergreen needs is to look at the foliage.

Some varieties have light-colored variegation, like Ernesto’s Favorite and Curtissi. Even if the chlorophyll levels don’t technically change in the “bleached” spots, the variegation can still affect the amount of light available for photosynthesis.

That’s why it’s a good idea to expose those variegated varieties to more sunlight to balance the drop in photosynthetic activity. Just keep the light indirect, or aim for the early morning hours!

Meanwhile, varieties with non-variegated dark green leaves, like Aglaonema modestum, can handle full shade.

Pruning

Although Aglaonema is a slow grower, it does get leggy with age. So, occasional pruning will help keep it in tip-top shape.

All you need to do is identify those leggy growths, grab a sterilized pair of garden shears, and snip the stem near the base. Remember to leave a few inches above the soil to allow for regrowth.

Keep in mind that pruning a lot of the plant at once can put it under stress. If your Aglaonema is in desperate need of pruning, it’s better to try and cut one leggy part at a time and keep the process going over the course of a few weeks.

You could also prune your Chinese evergreen if it has a lot of brown leaves. Plus, some people also use pruning to control the potted plants’ size.

Finally, one tip is to prune the inflorescences. Yes, as weird and counterintuitive as that may sound, it does help redirect the plant’s energy to the foliage.

The good thing here is that some people find the flowers inconspicuous anyway. If we’re being honest, the lance-shaped foliage is the true star of the show!

How to Care For Aglaonema? 

So, you’ve just set your Aglaonema in a pot of slightly acidic soil, placed it away from direct sunlight, and set a watering schedule to keep the top layers of the soil moist. What now?

Well, those are the basics required to keep your arum alive. If you want it to thrive, you’ll need to tackle two extra plant care aspects: humidity and fertilization.

For one, the Aglaonema is tropical by nature and prefers humid areas. That’s why many owners opt for pebble trays or humidifiers, but manual misting will do fine. This is a nifty trick to keep in mind during the winter.

Spring and summer, on the other hand, are the Aglaonema’s growing seasons. So, that’s when you could go for a fertilizing boost.

Most people opt for time-release pellets before and after the season. However, a dose of liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer works, too.

When to Plant Aglaonema?

If you’re trying to establish an Aglaonema in a new pot or grow a full plant from a cutting, your best bet is the growing season (spring and summer).

Those are warm enough to support the Chinese Evergreen during its first phases and ease the transition after repotting. Plus, since the plant is actively growing, you can expect it to take root quickly.

Propagation and Growth

The most common way of propagating Aglaonema is through cutting. The good news is that it’s one of the easiest (and cheapest!) propagation methods.

It’s also possible to opt for air layering. However, this approach can be tricky for beginners. It’s also a little counterproductive since the arum takes roots easily with simpler methods.

Propagation

Propagation by cutting means splitting a shoot from the mother plant and then planting it in a temporary growth medium (usually water) until it forms roots. Then, the shoot is transplanted into its “final” home.

We find that using water is straightforward—being able to see the roots form is just a nifty bonus!

Here’s how:

1. Grab clean, sharp shears.
2. Fill a large jar with tap water and let it set overnight to reduce chlorine leaves.
3. Look for a stem with 4–5 healthy leaves.
4. Hold the stem and snip at a length of about 6 inches (diagonal cuts work best).
5. Put the stem in the jar so that the water reaches the nodes.
6. Place the cutting on a windowsill with indirect light.
7. Change the water whenever it gets cloudy.
8. Wait for the first roots to appear (should take about 4 weeks).

You might want to try this with more than one stem cutting to boost your odds.

How to Plant Aglaonema

See those little thread-like growths extending from the bottom of the cutting? Those are your new roots. The stem is now officially the “daughter plant.”

Once you see a few healthy roots, you can transplant the baby Aglaonema into its pot or flower bed if you’re growing it outdoors.

Here are some tips to help you out:

• Use well-draining potting mixed with perlite.
• Keep the substrate moist at all times.
• Top-dress with fresh potting mixture in the spring.

It’s also worth noting that some people manage to successfully plant a fresh cutting into the soil directly.

Pests and Diseases

Although Aglaonema isn’t a particularly sensitive houseplant, it’s still susceptible to a few pests, including:

• Mealybugs
• Scale
• Aphids
• Spider mites

These can all stunt the plant’s growth and wilt the leaves. Thankfully, they’re easy to treat with insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils, like neem.

Putting those infections and infestations aside, the Aglaonema plants are also prone to copper deficiency (results in yellow, strap-shaped leaves). That’s where the fertilizer boosts come in handy!

FAQS

Which Aglaonema varieties are easy to grow?

Pretty much all Aglaonema plants are beginner-friendly, so it all boils down to your needs.

For instance, if you want a variety with slightly more cold hardiness than average, Maria Christina is the gal for you.

Meanwhile, if you want something popular and low-maintenance, opt for the Silver Queen (A. treubyi or A. commutatum). It was awarded the Award of Garden Merit by the RHS, which speaks volumes about its stability, availability, and general resistance to pests and diseases!

What is the Aglaonema potting mix for lilies?

The typical Aglaonema mix is peat-based potting soil with perlite, usually in a 3:1 or 2:1 ratio. Meanwhile, a mix of equal parts sand, peat moss, and vermiculite works well for lilies.

How many types of Aglaonema are there?

According to Kew’s Royal Botanic Gardens, there are 25 accepted Aglaonema species. Some of those are variegated, while others aren’t.

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The post How to Care For Aglaonema appeared first on Garden and Plant Care.

With a bit of attention, you can grow massive displays of colorful foliage. On top of that, the plants come in all sorts of different shapes and shades. 

There are many Aglaonema varieties out in the wild. Some have broad dark leaves, while others grow tiny, bright ones. 

So, you should be able to find a plant that suits your needs. To help make this process easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of 20 types of aglaonema.

In this article, we’ll talk about what makes each variety special. We’ll also walk you through how to take care of the plants to ensure they last a long time.

Aglaonema Overview

Before we jump into the types of plants, let’s take a quick look at the species as a whole. For starters, Aglaonemas are native to South and Southeast Asia. 

They thrive in shady tropical forests with high humidity levels. 

Other than that, these plants are also perennials from the Araceae family. That means, with the proper care, they can live longer than two years.

Even though they may shed their leaves in winter, the colorful foliage comes back by spring. This is also why many people call the Aglaonema Evergreens.

It refers to how their leaves can stay functional throughout multiple growing seasons. 

While Aglaonemas are native to parts of Asia, you can still find them all over the world.

How Many Species of Aglaonema Are There?

We can estimate that there are around 50 different types of Aglaonema. Although finding out the exact number can be a bit tricky.

Since they can thrive in low-light conditions, they’re adapted to living indoors. Because of that, flora cultivators love to breed and hybridize these plants. 

So, every few years, a new variety of Aglaonema will pop up around the world. 

Aglaonema Varieties

Now, with the overview out of the way, we can jump into the different types of Aglaonema. Let’s take a look at these plants and how to take care of them.

1. Aglaonema Amelia

Common Names

The common name for the Amelia plant is Chinese Evergreen. This refers to the flora’s Asian heritage and resilient leaves.  

Description and Characteristics

Aglaonema Amelia is one of the most popular plant varieties on our list. It grows to about 11 or 12.5 inches tall if given the space. 

In addition, the foliage can spread out to cover an area of around 20 inches. 

The popularity of the plant is probably due to the fact that it’s clump-forming. That means the foliage tends to grow in large bunches. 

Because of that, the leaves typically look dense with few bald spots.

Moving on, when it comes to the color, the leaves are a combination of three hues. Each one is a slightly different shade of green. 

The base of the foliage is a deep, dark green. Plus, there are large streaks of emerald that run across the surface in a lateral pattern.

Finally, some leaves have random spots of light green.

Care Guide

Taking care of Amelias is pretty simple. First off, they don’t require that much watering. A cup of water, once a week, should do the trick.

That means you can leave the plant unattended for quite a while.

Other than that, Amelias thrive in a temperature range of 68℉ to 77℉. This allows them to carry out normal growth cycles as fast as possible. 

They can also handle being in slightly cold weather but within certain limits. Any temperature lower than 55℉ may cause the leaves to freeze over and break. 

2. Aglaonema Anyamanee

Common Names

Anyamanees have one of the most difficult names of any Aglaonema plant. The name originates from Thailand and it means gemstone.

This is a reference to the bright bold color of the plants. Some people also call these florae Unyamanee and Pink Anyamanee.

While the names may be tough to pronounce, the plant is still incredibly delightful.

Description and Characteristics

As you can tell by the common name, Anyamanee foliage is mostly pink. Yet, there are small green veins that run through the surface of the leaves.

So, the foliage has an incredible variegated pattern that’s unique to these plants. 

When it comes to size, Anyamanees are on the smaller side. The overall height of the plants reaches around six to seven inches. 

Other than being stunning to look at, these plants also have a special quality. They’re able to filter the air and purify it from many pollutants. 

These include chemicals like benzene, formaldehyde, and other hydraulic fluids.

Care Guide

Taking care of these plants can be a little challenging. That’s because Anyamanees are especially sensitive to moisture concentration. 

They need around a cup of water every 10 days. Anything more, or less, and the plants will have a hard time growing. 

On top of that, you’ll need to fertilize the soil at least once a month to keep them healthy.  

3. Aglaonema BJ Freeman

Common Names

Most of the time, people will refer to this plant as BJ Freeman. While it’s a great identifier, the name isn’t all that inviting. 

So, to make the plants more commercially appealing, we refer to them as Gabriella or Celia. 

Description and Characteristics

BJ Freemans are one of the original varieties of Aglaonema. Because of how old the plants are, it’s difficult to track their origins.

However, that doesn’t take away from the flora’s natural beauty. These Aglaonema have bright green, papery leaves.

Some foliage can have a few dark spots, but the majority is a pale green shade. Plus, the leaves are broad and curve upwards.

This means the plants will look full, even with just a few leaves. 

In addition, they’re one of the largest types of plants on our list. With enough space, they can grow to almost four feet tall and three feet wide.

Care Guide

Since BJ Freemans have been around for a long time, these plants are excellent survivors. They don’t need much water or fertilization throughout their lifetime.

In fact, you can get away with watering these florae about once a month. On top of that, they’ll only require around a tablespoon of fertilizer a year. 

For the fastest growth rates, be sure to keep BJ Freemans in a temperature range of 60 to 70℉.

4. Aglaonema Black Lance

Common Names

The name that most people use for these plants is Black Lance. This is because of the shape of the leaves.

Although, since the leaves on the plants are almost black, some also call them Dark Evergreens. 

Description and Characteristics

Black Lances are one of the most distinctive varieties of Aglaonema for a couple of reasons. First off, they have dark leaves.

While they’re not black, like the name suggests, they’re a deep shade of green. This is incredibly unusual for plants. Most others have bright-colored foliage. 

Other than that, the leaves have a unique shape. As the name implies, they resemble lances. That means they have broad bases that taper down as you reach the tip of the foliage. 

Black Lances can vary greatly in height depending on their growing conditions. Some of them can be as small as eight inches tall, while others can reach about four feet high. 

Care Guide

Taking care of Black Lances is an easy task. The plants can survive in many environments with little maintenance.

Typically, Dark Evergreens need a cup of water every other week. This may change depending on the weather, so it’s best to check the soil before adding any more moisture.

You can do that using the finger test. Burrow a small three-inch hole into the soil with your index finger.

If your digit comes out completely dry, then you need to sprinkle on a little extra water. 

5. Aglaonema Cory

Common Names

Cory may sound like a strange name for a plant, but there’s a reason behind it. The word “Cor” is Latin for heart, mind, and soul. 

So, it symbolizes how these Aglaonemas can warm up any space they’re in. Other than that, some gardeners refer to the plants as White Frost. This is because of their cream stems.

Description and Characteristics

There are a few reasons people like to buy Cory plants. For starters, they have sizable green leaves with feathery stripes running through them.

As the plants age, the veins on the foliage turn a silvery-cream shade. This creates a pleasing pattern that you won’t see anywhere else. 

Generally, Cory plants can reach heights of around 36 inches. Although, it may take a couple of years for the florae to grow that tall. 

Care Guide

Cory plants are another resilient variety of Aglaonema. They can handle high temperatures in excess of 70℉. 

Plus, they can thrive in spaces with low humidity, which is rare for an Aglaonema. 

Sadly, they’re not all that resistant to the cold. Temperatures below 60℉ will turn the leaves rigid and brittle. 

6. Aglaonema Cutlass

Common Names

A cutlass is a short sword with a slightly curved blade. So, as you can imagine, the leaves of the plant look like a small hunting knife.

That’s also why another common name for these plants is Dagger Evergreens. 

Description and Characteristics

Cutlass leaves have one of the most interesting shapes on our list. The base of the foliage is narrow, but it tapers down even further. 

This results in a slim, pointy tip. While the leaves aren’t as sharp as daggers, they can still cause injury if you’re not careful. 

The tip of the leaves can puncture the skin like needles. 

Because of the narrow foliage, Cutlass plants can survive in high heat. A few can even thrive in climates as hot as 85℉. There, they grow to about 15 to 20 inches. 

Care Guide

To get the most out of your Cutlass plants, you’ll need to water them about once a week. Although, you have to be sure to use lukewarm water.

If the temperature of the soil drops below 60℉, the roots may frost over and break off. 

Other than that, keep the plant out of direct sunlight. Overexposure may degrade the leaves and stop them from carrying out photosynthesis. 

7. Aglaonema Chocolate

Common Names

When you roast a fresh batch of cacao beans, they turn a nice, deep, burnt maroon shade. This color is almost identical to that of Aglaonema Chocolate leaves.

That’s where the name comes from. Plus, we can refer to these plants as Velvet Evergreens because of the smooth surface of the foliage.

Description and Characteristics

As we mentioned, Chocolate plants have smooth, maroon leaves. The bright pop of color can add a sense of whimsy to any space.

To top it off, the foliage has red veins running through the center. This makes the plants ideal for adding an exotic flare to indoor areas.

On average, Chocolate Aglaonemas can grow to around six inches tall. While they’re on the shorter side, they’re no less striking than the other types of plants on our list. 

Care Guide

There are a few factors you should be aware of to take care of Chocolate Aglaonemas.

Right off the bat, they don’t need a lot of water. A couple of cups a week should be more than enough.

Besides that, they’re particularly sensitive to sun rays. Even though they can survive under direct sunlight, the leaves will begin to discolor.

This will affect the plants’ ability to grow new structures, and it dampens the beauty of the foliage. 

8. Aglaonema Deborah

Common Names

The name Deborah has Hebrew origins and translates into Queen Bee. This shows off how elegant these plants can be. 

Aside from that, many gardeners use the name Queen of Siam for this Aglaonema variety. That reinforces the royal background of the plants.

Finally, because of the white base of the leaves, we can also call these florae Snow White. 

Description and Characteristics

Deborah plants have variegated green leaves that curve upwards as they grow. Because of that, the tips of the foliage create an almost crown-like shape. 

This is probably why these plants have strong ties to royalty. In addition, the pale green center of the florae gives it a soft, welcoming air. 

Moving on, the average Deborah can reach heights of around 32 inches. 

Care Guide

Unlike other Aglaonemas, Deborahs need a lot of moisture regularly. As a general rule, it’s best to water these plants every other day.

To add to that, they need plenty of sun. It’s best to place them in indirect sunlight for a minimum of six hours a day.

That’ll ensure they can produce enough energy to survive. Lastly, to help the leaves grow healthy, you may need to prune the plants quite often. 

9. Aglaonema Emerald Bay

Common Names

Emerald Bay is a type of Aglaonemas with striking, vibrant green leaves. That name comes from the fact that the foliage can resemble flashy gemstones.

Other than that, we can also call this plant the Survivor Evergreen. 

Description and Characteristics

These plants are typical Aglaonemas. Their leaves are narrow and pointy, with a variegated pattern on the surface.  Plus, they have the signature bright green shade of flowering Araceae.

Emerald Bays are one of the hardiest plant varieties on our list. That’s why we refer to it as the Survivor. 

They can handle tough conditions, meaning they can grow almost anywhere in the world. This includes warm and cold climates alike.

Moving on, if you let them grow freely, Emerald Bays can soar about four feet into the air.

Care Guide

Just like most of the other varieties on our list, Emerald Bays need water about once a week. However, that’s not all.

These plants prefer living in an environment with high humidity levels. Because of that, you’ll need to mist the leaves with water every couple of days.

Besides that, Emerald Bays require constant fertilization. To meet their nutritional demands, sprinkle a tablespoon of fertilizer on the soil twice a month.  

10. Aglaonema Etta Rose

Common Names

There are a couple of common names for these plants. These include Etta Rose and Floating Evergreen. The latter comes from the different shades of the leaves.  

Description and Characteristics

Etta Roses have small, broad foliage that branches out in every direction. The leaves have a deep, dark hue with a bright stripe of pink running through the center. 

Plus, the leaves have random bright green spots scattered all around. 

In the morning light, you can see every vein in the leaves and all the subtle color shifts. However, as the sun sets, the foliage display becomes even more impressive. 

At night, the moonlight shines through the leaves and gives them a magical effect. The pale pink sections can appear almost translucent. 

For that reason, the green areas can look like they’re floating in mid-air. That’s most likely the reason behind the name Floating Evergreen. 

Care Guide

The moisture, temperature, light, and humidity requirements of these plants are pretty standard. 

That means they only need water every couple of weeks and can survive in temperatures between 60℉ and 70℉.

Although, Etta Roses do require some special care. Every few weeks, you have to rotate the plants to ensure they grow evenly.

That way, the foliage has the best chance of surviving through the winter. 

11. Aglaonema Golden Bay

Common Names

Because of the color of the leaves, we dubbed these plants Golden Bays. As an alternative, we also call them Sun Evergreens.

Description and Characteristics

Golden Bays are a variation of the more common Emerald Bays. Both plants have almost identical leaves. 

They’re narrow, pointy, and have a striped pattern on the surface. Yet, what makes Golden Bays special is the color of the foliage.

As the name suggests, the center of the leaves is a pale yellow. Plus, the base has a deep amber shade.

Due to the color variation, these plants can create a remarkable light show. In low-light conditions, the leaves look like they have a subtle glow in the center. 

This, along with the flare of the leaves, can resemble the sun. 

Care Guide

Golden Bays are sensitive to air moisture content and the sun. They require a high level of humidity to thrive. 

Unfortunately, that may mean you have to invest in a humidifier. 

Aside from that, Golden Bays need an environment with bright, indirect sunlight. These plants can survive in the shade, but it’ll affect the pattern of the leaves.

The longer the foliage is out of the sun, the plainer it’ll look. 

12. Aglaonema Gemini

Common Names

This variety of Aglaonema has two names. The one we use the most is Gemini, but the designation Tigress Evergreen is also common.

Description and Characteristics

Gemini usually describes an object with a dual nature. That’s the perfect way to express the colors of these plants.

Gemini Aglaonema leaves are a mixture of dark and pale green. The shades create a color-blocking pattern that almost looks like tiger stripes.

In addition, the leaves curl down slightly. This gives the plants an open shape, which makes them appear inviting. 

Under perfect conditions, Gemini can live up to 10 years. Yet, this can change depending on the temperature and humidity levels of your area. 

Care Guide

One of the reasons we call them Tigress Evergreen is because of how resilient they are. They can go several weeks without any water and maintain a healthy growth rate.

Because of that, Gemini Aglaonemas make perfect beginner plants. You don’t need much experience to care for them.

On top of that, because of their dual-colored leaves, they can survive in high and low light conditions. 

Although, due to their growth rate, you may have to prune them often.

13. Aglaonema Lady Valentine

Common Names

The usual name for these plants is Lady Valentine. Yet, there are two other designations that we use to show off the delicate nature of these florae.

These include Pink Lady and Valentine Evergreen. 

Description and Characteristics

Lady Valentines have large, broad leaves that grow out in every direction. These plants are one of the most special varieties of Aglaonema. 

That’s because, instead of green, the majority of the foliage has a pink center. This gives the florae a soft, feminine appearance.

That’s why many people associate it with the most romantic day of the year. 

Moving on, Pink Ladies are one of the smaller plants on our list. They can grow to around three inches, but rarely ever taller. 

That makes them ideal table centerpieces. You can place a Valentine Evergreen pot on your dining table to add a nice, gentle pop of color. 

Care Guide

To create the subtle pink hue, Valentine Evergreens need plenty of sunlight. As a general rule, the more sun, the deeper the shade of pink. 

So, it’s best to place these plants in bright, indirect sunlight. 

Other than that, Pink Ladies don’t have any specific care needs. 

Although, since the foliage is larger than average, these plants tend to have fewer leaves. Luckily, that means you’ll rarely need to prune it. 

14. Aglaonema Leprechaun

Common Names

Leprechauns have been a symbol of good fortune for many years. Because of that, some people refer to these plants as Luck Evergreens. 

Description and Characteristics

Leprechaun leaves go through a few changes as they mature. First off, they start by growing straight up.

Then, the foliage begins to arch outward and downward as it ages. Finally, the leaves will end up in a lance shape, with an average width of three inches each. 

The leaves also grow in a compact form, which means they’ll clump up together. This makes the plants look incredibly dense.

Another interesting feature of Leprechauns is that they’re usually uniformly rounded. That means you won’t need to put in any effort to make sure the plants look symmetrical.

Besides that, the average Lucky Evergreen can reach a maximum height of around 10 inches. 

Care Guide

Leprechaun Aglaonemas have an impressive growth rate. Due to that, they can reach full maturity in just under nine months. 

Although, for this to happen, you need to supply them with the perfect environment. 

That includes watering once every two weeks and constant misting to keep the humidity up. Plus, make sure to keep the temperature between 65℉ and 70℉. 

15. Aglaonema Maria

Common Names

Maria is the simplest name for these plants, and it loosely translates to beloved. Apart from that, we also call them Mosaic Evergreen or Snail Evergreen. 

Description and Characteristics

When you compare Maria plants to the others on our list, you’ll notice a significant difference. The majority of the florae only contain one or two colors. 

However, Maria leaves have three, and sometimes more, different shades of green. 

These hues come together to create an exceptionally intricate pattern. This can sometimes look like a mosaic design.

In addition, the leaves are broad but relatively short. This will give the plants an overall fuller look. Plus, just like snowflakes, no two leaves are the same.

Moving on, mature Marias can reach heights of about 20 inches indoors. 

Finally, we call these plants Snail Evergreens because of how long it takes them to mature. 

Care Guide

Marias aren’t as resilient as the majority of Aglaonemas. For that reason, you have to pay close attention to their environment. 

Typically, these plants will perform best in cooler weather. Sadly, that means they’ll have a hard time surviving in temperatures over 70℉.

Other than that, Marias prefer the shade. They can grow in areas with minimal sunlight, which makes them ideal indoor plants. 

It’s crucial that you keep these florae away from the sun as much as possible. Even a little bright sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to break off. 

16. Aglaonema Maria Christina

Common Names

These plants have three common names. Aside from Maria Christina, we can also call them Poison Darts or Deadly Evergreens. 

Description and Characteristics

Maria Christinas bear a startling resemblance to Maria Aglaonemas. Both plants have broad, short, multicolored leaves.

Yet, there are a couple of major differences. Christinas have fewer shades of green on their foliage. This means the leaves are slightly less interesting. 

Besides that, Maria Christinas also have denser foliage.

However, that doesn’t mean these plants are boring. Maria Christinas are poisonous members of the Arum family. 

Consuming even small amounts of the plants can send humans and animals to the emergency room.

Lastly, these plants can grow up to 10 inches tall and around four inches wide. 

Care Guide

Unlike Marias, these plants are much less sensitive to the environment. They can handle a wide range of light concentrations.

Because of that, you can grow them almost anywhere. 

They also don’t need that much moisture, meaning you can water them once every couple of weeks. 

So, most of the time, you won’t need to put in any effort for the plants to thrive. Although the leaves don’t grow symmetrically, so you may need to prune them frequently.

17. Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor

Common Names

Pictum is the Latin word for decorating. So, from the name, we can tell that people loved using the three colors of these plants to embellish their homes

The different shades of green come together and form a pattern. This is most likely the reason behind the name Camouflage Evergreen. 

Description and Characteristics

Pictum Tricolors are one of the most stunning varieties of Aglaonema. That’s because of their broad leaves with complex designs.

The foliage consists of three main shades, dark green, pale green, and an off-white hue. These come together to form a variegated pattern that resembles camouflage. 

Plus, the leaves have a waxy coating layer that gives them a glossy surface. This helps the plants reflect some light and add a bit of shine to your space. 

To top it off, these florae stay compact and rarely grow over two feet tall. That means you can squeeze them into any space around the house. 

Because of that, Pictum Tricolors are exceptionally popular and in demand. Sadly, that means they can also be quite pricey. 

Care Guide

Pictum Tricolors prefer growing in damp conditions. For that reason, you’ll need to water the plants often. 

Generally, adding about a half cup of water to the soil every other day should do the trick. 

In addition, since you’ll dilute the soil regularly, you have to replace any lost nutrients. You can do that by sprinkling on a tablespoon of fertilizer every two weeks.

18. Aglaonema Red Gold

Common Names

The common name for these plants is Red Gold. Although some gardeners also refer to the florae as the Sunset Evergreen. 

Description and Characteristics

If you’re looking for exotic plants to add a bit of flare to your home, Red Golds may be the way to go. 

These are a hybrid cultivar of Aglaonema. That means that they’re a combination of more than one type of flora. 

Because of that, these plants have wonderfully colorful foliage. The base of the leaves is a pinkish-red hue. 

On top of that, there’s a mixture of yellow and green stripes running across the surface. This collection of colors can be reminiscent of the sky just before dusk. 

Besides that, Sunset Evergreens can grow to around three feet tall. 

Care Guide

Red Golds thrive in warm conditions with plenty of moisture. For that reason, you’ll need to water the plants around twice a week to keep them healthy.

Moving on, these florae prefer living in a humid environment. This allows the stems to maintain their rigidity to help the plants grow up toward the sun. 

Yet, they can survive in dry climates. The only issue will be with the growth rate. In low humidity, Red Golds will take a long time to reach full maturity. 

19. Aglaonema Silverado

Common Names

The common names for these plants are Silverado and Silver Evergreen. Both designations refer to the florae’s metallic, gray hue. 

Description and Characteristics

When you think of plants, you’ll typically imagine shades of green, red, yellow, and maybe pink. However, Silverados completely stepped out of these expectations. 

Instead of the normal nature shades, these florae have grayish foliage. The leaves are also broad and taper to a fine point at the tip. 

This gives them the classic tear-drop shape.

Plus, if you let Silverados grow freely, they can reach heights of about two feet tall. That makes these plants incredibly versatile.

You can use them as centerpieces, or as added decoration on your windowsill. 

Care Guide

Silverado plants are exceptionally easy to take care of. They only need watering once a week, although they are a little drought-tolerant.

That means they can go about two or three weeks without moisture. This will slightly slow down the growth rate, but it should revert back to normal as soon as you add water. 

Moving on, when it comes to light, Silverados aren’t all that picky. You can place them in low or medium light.

However, it’s best to steer clear of direct sunlight to avoid damaging the leaves. 

20. Aglaonema Wishes

Common Names

In ancient China, many people believed these plants could grant your deepest desire. That’s most likely where the name Wishes comes from.

Aside from that, we can also call the florae Red Wish Evergreens. 

Description and Characteristics

These plants are similar to Red Golds. Both have a bright red center, with a green variegated pattern on top, and they grow to about three feet tall. 

The most obvious difference is that Wishes don’t contain streaks of yellow. As a result, the red hues are much more apparent. 

Because of that, many Asian Cultures associate these plants with good fortune. 

Other than that, Red Wish Evergreens tend to have marginally smaller leaves. This makes them perfect for pots or small terrariums. 

Care Guide

To maintain the bright scarlet shade of these plants, you’ll need to pay attention to the water content. 

During the summers, Wishes will need plenty of moisture. So, as a general rule, it’s best to keep the soil damp throughout the season.

For that reason, you’ll need to water the plants every other day. 

However, as winter comes around, this changes. In the cold, Red Wish Evergreens prefer the soil to be slightly dry. 

Because of that, you’ll need to change the watering schedule to once a week.

FAQs

What Are the Most Popular Aglaonema Types?

While all Aglaonemas are charming, some are more popular than others.

One of the most sought-after plants is the Pictum Tricolor. It may be a little tricky to care for, but the beautiful foliage display more than makes up for it.

Other than that, people also tend to prefer Silverados, Emerald Bays, Wishes, and Red Golds. Each one of these has colorful leaves that add a bit of warmth to any space.

To top it all off, they’re usually easy to maintain. 

Which Aglaonema Plants Are the Easiest to Grow?

The answer to this question will depend on where you live. If your home is in a colder climate, then go for Emerald Bays or Amelias. 

Both plants should be able to survive through the chilly winter and regrow their leaves.

On the other hand, if you live in a warm area, then Cutlass and Silverados are the way to go. These are some of the most resilient plants on our list, and they don’t need much care. 

What Are the Benefits of Aglaonema Plants?

The main reason people purchase Aglaonemas is because of their decorative nature. They’re stunning plants with a massive variety of shapes and colors.

Although, that’s not the most impressive feature of these florae. 

Most members of the Aglaonema family have purifying qualities. They can reduce the level of pollution in the air. 

Wrapping Up

The Araceae family is large, with plenty of members. However, our list focuses on the most popular 20 types of Aglaonema. 

These include Cutlass, Emerald Bays, Silverados, Red Golds, and Amelias. Other than that, there are also the Wishes, Gemini, and Leprechaun varieties. 

Each one of these has distinctive foliage and a specific maintenance routine. With all this information in mind, you’re ready to head out and buy a new plant for your home. 

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Aglaonema: The Perfect Houseplant for Low Light Environments

Barbara WilsonNov 17, 2021

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In this article, we’ll explore the various methods of propagating lilies, as well as the tools and materials needed for successful propagation. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions about planting lily bulbs.

How Do I Propagate Lilies?

The method of propagation involves generating new plants from older ones. There are several ways to propagate lilies, including through bulbs, water, seeds, and leaves.

The method you choose will depend on your resources and personal preference.

What Are the Different Ways to Propagate Lilies?

Here are some of the methods you can follow to propagate lilies: 

Division

Divide the bulbs between the fall and early spring when they are dormant.

Dig up the bulb clump gently and separate the bulbs by pulling them apart. Replant the bulbs in well-draining soil with the pointed end facing up.

Bulbils

Some lily species produce small bulbils along the stem. These can be removed and planted in a pot with well-draining soil.

Keep the soil moist and provide indirect sunlight until the bulbils develop roots and shoots.

Stem cutting

Take a stem cutting in the spring or summer and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem.

Plant it in the ground after dipping the cut end in a rooting hormone. Keep the soil well watered and shaded until the cutting sprouts.

Scaling

This method involves removing scales from the bulb and planting them in a pot with well-draining soil. Cover the scales with soil and keep the soil moist.

Once you notice the scales developing, transplant them to a larger pot or into the ground.

How Do I Propagate Lilies From Water?

You can’t propagate lilies from water alone as they require soil to grow and develop properly. However, you can root lily cuttings in water before transferring them to the soil for further growth.

To propagate lilies from water, follow these steps:

1. Take a stem cutting from a healthy lily plant in the spring or summer. Use a sharp knife to make a clean cut below a leaf node.
2. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
3. Put the cutting in a water-filled container or vase. Ensure that the water level covers only the bottom portion of the stem and not the leaves.
4. Place the jar in a bright, indirect light location but away from direct sunlight.
5. Change the water in the jar every few days to keep it clean and fresh.
6. Wait for the roots to develop from the bottom of the stem, which usually takes a few weeks.
7. Once the roots have developed, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.
8. Water the soil and place the pot in a bright location with indirect sunlight.
9. Continue to care for the lily plant as it grows, providing appropriate water and sunlight to ensure its healthy growth.

Lily cuttings may not always root successfully in water, so be patient and keep trying until you succeed.

Additionally, once the cuttings develop roots and get transferred to the soil, it may take some time for the plant to grow and bloom.

The time it takes for a propagated lily to grow and bloom can vary depending on various factors, such as the species and environmental conditions.

Generally, lilies grown from cuttings can take several months to a year or more to produce blooms, depending on the conditions in which they are grown.

How Do I Propagate Lilies From Seeds?

Propagation through seeds can be rewarding but requires patience and attention. Begin by collecting mature lily seed pods and breaking them open to extract the seeds. Soak the seeds in warm water for a day, then plant them in well-draining soil.

Place the container in a warm, sunny area and keep the soil moist but not soggy. It can take up to a year for the seeds to germinate and grow into mature plants.

How Do I Propagate Lilies From Leaf?

Propagation through leaf cuttings is the least common method but can be a fun experiment. Begin by selecting a healthy lily leaf and cutting it into sections, ensuring each section has a vein.

Place the leaf sections in a pot with the soil. Roots should begin to form in a few weeks, and you can then transfer the leaf cuttings to the planting pots. 

What Do I Need For Lily Propagation?

The tools and materials you need for lily propagation will vary depending on your method of choice. You’ll need a clean vase and clean water for water propagation.

As for seed propagation, you’ll need well-draining soil, a pot, and mature lily seed pods. Finally, for leaf propagation, you’ll need a healthy lily leaf, a planting pot, and well-draining soil.

How Long Does It Take To Propagate Lilies?

The time it takes to propagate lilies will also depend on the method of choice. Water propagation can take a few weeks, while seed propagation can take up to a year.

Timeline of Propagation For Lilies

Water Propagation: 2–3 weeks

Seed propagation: up to 1 year

Leaf propagation: a few weeks to a few months

FAQs

What are lily bulbs?

Lily bulbs are the underground storage structures of lily plants. They are used for asexual reproduction and are a common way to propagate lilies.

How to plant lily bulbs?

Choose a sunny or partially shaded location. Grab a pot and fill it with organic matter (soil), and dig a hole three times the height of the bulbs. Then place the bulb in the hole, and make the pointed end up.

Then you should apply mulch and fertilizer during the growing phase. Ensure that the soil is moist but not stagnant. 

Conclusion

Taking care of a lily plant or growing it from scratch (the seed) is a process that takes a lot of time, patience, and education.

But with the proper knowledge and a little effort, you can create a stunning display of beautiful lilies that will brighten up any space.

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While these plants are low maintenance, they do have specific requirements to thrive. That’s especially true when it comes to the growing medium.

So, if you’re wondering how to make your own lily soil, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the growing conditions. 

We’ll also cover the benefits of making your own soil at home. 

Why Make Your Own Liliaceae Plant Soil?

To grow a lily, you’re going to need the proper soil. Luckily, there are many excellent growing medium options online.

At this point, you may wonder, if there are great soil alternatives, what’s the point of making my own? Well, there are a few reasons why it’s best to use homemade growing mediums. 

First off, they’re much more customizable. This means you can tweak the recipe to handle all kinds of weather conditions.

Other than that, when you make your own soil, you’ll ensure that all the necessary nutrients are present. That way, you’ll guarantee the lilies will grow healthy.

Finally, pre-packaged soil can sometimes contain preservative chemicals. These stop bacteria and other harmful organisms from growing. 

Sadly, this can also affect the growth rate of your flowers. So, making a custom soil blend will eliminate the chances of that happening.

What Are the Characteristics of Lily Soil?

When it comes to soil, there are three factors that you should keep an eye on. These include drainage, soil pH, and nutrient availability.

Well-Drained Soil

The drainage aspect will deal with the porosity of the soil. This is the growing medium’s ability to retain water.

Typically, lilies need a well-drained environment to thrive. To figure out how to create that, we have to look at the different types of soil. These are loamy, sandy, silt, and clay. 

Sandy soil is the most porous, which means it doesn’t hold water well. This may result in a dry environment, which isn’t ideal.

On the other hand, clay is the least porous, and gets waterlogged easily. That’ll make for a particularly damp growing medium. Sadly, this may lead to root rot.

So, for the best results, it’s a good idea to find a compromise between the two. That’s when loamy soil comes into play. 

It’s a mixture of sand and clay that produces the perfect growing medium. You can also rely on silt if you live in a cold area.

Acidic Soil

Lilies prefer to grow in an acidic environment. Typically, a pH of around 6 to 6.5 should do the trick. 

Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to tell the pH of the soil with the naked eye. For that reason, you’ll need to use a pH meter. 

Then, you can add certain chemicals to reach the desired level of acidity. 

Rich Soil

With the acidity and drainage of the soil out of the way, we can focus on nutritional content. To allow lilies to grow healthy, you need to use soil that’s rich in organic materials.

This includes compost matter and other additive fertilizers. As a general rule, lilies require about a tablespoon of fertilizer every two weeks. 

What Do Lilies Need?

We talked about the characteristics of lily soil. Now, we can dive into what the flowers need to survive. 

First off, when it comes to sunlight, the more the better. Lilies need full, bright light to grow. Generally, about six hours of sun a day should be sufficient. 

Other than that, the flowers will require three nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. 

Nitrogen is one of the key ingredients in amino acids, which plants need to produce new proteins.

Moving on, phosphorus promotes the growth of healthy roots. That makes it essential for anchoring lilies and making sure they get enough water.

Finally, potassium aids with the transportation of water and nutrients inside the flowers. So, without it, the plants will starve and wilt.

What Do You Need to Make the Best Lily Soil?

Before we jump into how to assemble the perfect soil for lilies, it’s best to gather your materials. This will make the process of creating the growing medium much easier. 

Plus, it’ll reduce the chances of dragging soil through your home.

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to start the process:

• River sand
• Pea gravel
• Clay soil
• Small garden shovel
• Organic materials (dead leaves or manure)
• Bucket
• 10:10:10 fertilizer
• Water
• Gardening gloves (optional)
• pH meter (optional)

Most of these ingredients are easy to come by. For example, you can forage in your backyard for dead plant materials.

However, other components like river sand and pea gravel are harder to find. If you don’t live by a large water source, it’s easier to purchase them online. 

Finally, a pH meter isn’t necessary, but it’ll make the process of perfecting the soil simpler. 

How to Make Your Own Liliaceae Plant Soil?

Now that all your ingredients are ready, we can begin making lily soil.

Mix the Base

The first step of the process is mixing your base components. That includes sand, gravel, and clay.

To start off, add equal parts of clay and sand to the bucket. Then, using your shovel, mix them together for about a minute or so, until they form a uniform blend. 

At this point, it may be a good idea to test the soil. To do that, pick up a handful of the growing medium and squeeze it tightly in your hand. 

If the mixture forms a stiff clump, then you’ll need to add more soil. On the other hand, if the soil is too loose, then adding a little clay should fix the issue. 

Add Gravel

After that, sprinkle in some gravel as you mix the growing medium. You want to keep doing that until you can see small specs of tiny rocks in the soil.

Once that’s done, you can focus on the second round of tests. This time, you’ll need water to carry out the experiments.

Fill up a small planting pot with your soil mixture. Then, add water until all the growing medium is damp.

Next, wait about an hour for the liquid to make its way through the soil. By the end of this period, the top two inches of the medium should be dry. 

If not, you may have to add more gravel to increase the porosity of the soil.

Fertilize the Soil

When you’re done with the second test, the growing medium should be ready to use. All that’s left is adding compost material and fertilizer.

As you add these components, check the pH of the soil continuously. Once it hits the 6 or 6.5 marker, you can plant your lilies. 

How to Store Your Leftover Liliaceae Plant Soil?

Over time, your growing medium will lose some of its nutritional value. So, to ensure your soil mixture lasts for a long time, you’ll need to store it properly. 

For that, you’ll need an air-tight container. 

Next, the process is as simple as filling up the vessel to the brim and covering it up. You can even add a layer of cling film on top of the soil before placing the lid.

This will improve the air-tight seal. On top of that, it’ll stop the soil from spilling all over the place when you need to use it next. 

What Are the Benefits of Making Your Own Potting Mix for Lilies?

There are quite a few benefits to mixing your own lily soil. First up, as we mentioned, you’ll be able to customize the growing medium as you like. 

Because of that, you’ll have a better chance of growing healthy lilies. 

Other than that, you can choose how much soil to make at a time. Since the growing medium will lose some of its potency, this can be a major help.

That way, you won’t waste any of your precious resources.

Lastly, lilies are incredibly sensitive to moisture. Any excess water can cause the roots to soften and break down. So, if you use store-bought soil, you risk damaging your plant. 

FAQs

How Much Soil Do Lilies Need?

Lilies don’t need a lot of space to spread out. That means a medium to large planting pot should do the trick.

Although, if you plan on planting the flowers in a garden bed, then you have to make some considerations. For example, the soil needs to be at least 12 inches deep for the lilies to thrive. 

How Do You Increase the Acidity of Soil?

To alter the pH of the soil, you can use a buffer solution. However, you can also use fertilizers, which are acidic most of the time.

Wrapping Up

Figuring out how to make your own lily soil can be a little challenging. You should start the process by gathering all the necessary materials. 

Then, mix equal parts of sand and clay to create a base for the growing medium. Next, add a sprinkle of gravel to improve the porosity of the soil.

Finally, using compost matter and fertilizers enhances the nutritional value of the medium. Once that’s done, you’re ready to plant your lilies. 

It’s also good to remember that you can store any excess soil in an air-tight container. 

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Pruning helps maintain your lily and encourages the growth of new blooms. 

In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects of pruning lilies, including why you need to prune them and how to cut them back.

Pruning and Trimming: The Difference

Pruning and trimming lilies are two different techniques used to maintain and care for the plant.

Pruning involves removing entire branches or stems from the plant to control its size or shape. In lilies, pruning may involve cutting back the stem after the flowers finish blooming or cutting back damaged or diseased branches to promote new growth.

On the other hand, trimming is used to shape and tidy up the plant’s appearance by removing small sections. Trimming may include removing spent flowers, yellowing leaves, or cutting the tips of stems to encourage branching.

Do Lilies Need Pruning?

Yes, lilies require pruning to maintain their health and encourage new growth. Pruning helps remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant, which can attract pests and diseases.

It also helps stimulate the growth of new blooms and keeps the plant looking tidy.

How to Prune Lilies?

Pruning lilies is a straightforward process that you can do using a few simple tools. Here are the steps to follow:

Wait Until The Blooms Have Faded

It’s essential to wait until the blooms have faded and the petals have fallen off before trimming the plant. This allows the plant to redirect its energy toward new growth.

Identify The Stems to be Trimmed

Look for stems that have finished blooming or those that are dead or damaged. These are the stems that need to be taken care of and trimmed.

Cut The Stem

Grab a pair of pruning shears, and cut the stem about an inch above the soil level. Make sure to cut at an angle to prevent water from accumulating on the cut surface, which can lead to rot.

Dispose of The Trimmed Stems

Collect the trimmed stems and dispose of them in the compost bin.

FAQs

Can I Prune my Lilies in The Spring?

No, it’s not advised to prune lilies in the spring, as this can damage emerging growth.

Doing so may hinder the plant’s flowering during the current growing season, and you may have to wait until the following year to see blooms.

Can I use regular scissors to prune my lilies?

No, you shouldn’t use regular scissors to prune lilies. Scissors aren’t suitable for the task because they have straight blades that crush and tear plant tissue instead of making clean cuts.

Instead, use pruning shears as they provide a smoother cut. This will lead to faster healing and reduces disease and infection risks.

Conclusion

Pruning lilies is an essential step in their care routine. It helps maintain their health and appearance.

It’s important to wait until the proper pruning time and use the proper tools for the job. 

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Well, lilies can be the answer to all those needs!

While you get to pick from an incredibly wide variety of species, the massive range of options can be confusing. 

This is where today’s article comes in!

Keep reading to find out about the different types of lilies, how they’re classified, which ones are the easiest to grow, which species are the most popular, and a lot more. Let’s jump in!

How Many Species of Lilies Are There?

There are about 100 different species of lilies out there, categorized into 9 divisions for easier tracking as follows:

• Asiatic Hybrids: Division 1
• Martagon Hybrids: Division 2
• Candidum Hybrids: Division 3
• American Hybrids: Division 4
• Longiflorum Hybrids: Division 5
• Trumpet and Aurelian Hybrids: Division 6
• Oriental Hybrids: Division 7
• Interdivisional Hybrids: Division 8
• Wild Species: Division 9

1. Fire Lily

Names

The Fire Lily is botanically known as Lilium bulbiferum. Other common names for this flower are Orange Lily, Jimmy’s Bane, Tiger Lily, St. John’s Lily, and Flame Lily. 

Classification-wise, the Fire Lily belongs to the 9th Division: Wild Lilies.

Description and characteristics

Native to the mountains of Europe, the Fire Lily lives up to its name with bright blooms of a vibrant tangerine orange shade. 

Each flower features an open bowl outline and the petals display lovely chocolate-colored freckles.

The Fire Lily is on the smaller side, growing up to 4 feet tall in USDA zones 3 to 9. It’s pleasantly fragrant and easy to propagate thanks to the many bulbils present between the leaf and the stem.

How to care

Despite its showy appearance, the Fire Lily doesn’t need much maintenance to thrive. It prefers full to partial sun exposure, has average water needs, and isn’t at all picky about the type or pH of the soil you plant it in.

That said, the Fire Lily does best in well-drained soil that’s kept constantly moist and enriched with well-decomposed organic matter or leaf mold.

Don’t forget to regularly check for attacks by gray mold, aphids, lily beetles, vine weevils, and slugs.

2. Golden-Rayed Lily

Names

The Golden-Rayed Lily is known in the botanical scene as Lilium auratum. Other common names for this flower include the Goldband Lily and Mountain Lily.

As for the classification, the Golden-Rayed Lily is a wild lily of Division 9.

Description and characteristics 

Native to Japan, the Golden-Rayed Lily is a sight to behold.

Blooming in late summer, this flower produces white petals with a sunny yellow stripe down the middle, creating a gorgeous star outline. Each petal also possesses dark or light pink spots that add to the plant’s striking beauty.

The Golden-Rayed Lily grows up to 4 feet high in USDA zones 5 to 10. They give off a very nice scent that’ll lure you into spending as much time as possible near them.

How to care

Requiring little maintenance, the Golden-Rayed Lily thrives in full sun and can also tolerate light shade during the afternoon in hot climates.

There’s no need to worry about the soil conditions; you can plant this flower in well-drained chalky, sandy, loamy, or clay soil with an acidic or neutral pH. However, you need to make sure the soil stays adequately moist at all times.

3. Canada Lily

Names

The Canada Lily is scientifically known as Lilium canadense. Other common names for this flower are the Wild Yellow Lily, Meadow Lily, Bitter Root, Canadian Martagon, Yellow Bell Lily, and Field Lily.

The Canadian Lily is a wild species of lilies, so it’s categorized under Division 9.

Description and characteristics 

The Canada Lily plant produces trumpet-like blooms with a dainty outline. The petals are orange with brown freckles and possess pointed tips that extend out and up.

The cheerful appearance of these lilies hits its peak in June and July, growing to reach 6 feet tall in USDA zones 3 to 9.

Native to Canada, this lily doesn’t germinate from the top of the bulb like most lilies. Instead, it forms shoots from the base of the blub, and then new bulbs rise at the end of those shoots moving toward the surface.

How to care

The Canada Lily does best with deep watering at least once per week. It’s a low-maintenance plant once established, given that you provide sandy or loamy soil where the pH is acidic to neutral. 

Light-wise, this flower thrives in full sun for optimal flowering. It can also grow well in partial shade.

4. Easter Lily

Names

Lilium longiflorum is the botanical name of the Easter Lily. This flower is also commonly called the White Trumpet Lily, November Lily, Trumpet Lily, and Bermuda Lily.

The Easter Lily’s genetic composition and hybridization history categorizes it as a wild species of Division 9.

Description and characteristics 

Elegant and delicate, the Easter Lily produces classic trumpet-shaped blooms with evident yellow anthers. The petals are mostly a pure white color, with a bit of pale green toward the center of the flower.

The Easter Lily is behind some of the most popular lily hybrids such as White Heaven and White American. Heavily scented, it grows in USDA zones 5 to 8, blooming in late summer and growing up to 4 feet tall.

How to care

This flower is easy to maintain. It thrives in full sun to part shade and doesn’t need a particular type of soil as long as it’s well-drained, neutral to alkaline, and loaded with organic matter.

Watering-wise, you just need to avoid letting the soil completely dry out. Never overwater your Easter Lily and keep an eye out for aphids, stem rot, and gray mold.

5. Oriental/Japanese Lily

Names

The scientific name of the Oriental Lily is Lilium speciosum. This flower also has other common names such as Showy Lily, Red Orchid Lily, and Red Japanese Lily.

The Oriental Lily, similar to the previous species, is part of the 9th Division of parent lilies.

Description and characteristics

Right from the first glance, you’ll know why so many people seek to add the Oriental Lily to the garden — it’s simply dazzling!

Hailing from Japan, this flower typically blooms in early fall, unlike most other species of lilies.

Taking the shape of a pendant, these blossoms are either a blush pink shade or a white color. They possess dark pink freckles along with raised bumps (papillae).

Pleasantly fragrant, the Oriental Lily grows in USDA zones 5 to 7, reaching a height of 4 to 5 feet.

How to care

To ensure optimal flowering, keep your Showy Lily exposed to indirect sunlight for at least 4 to 6 hours.

Any type of loose soil with an acidic to neutral pH level is suitable for this flower. But make sure it’s well-drained and rich in organic fertilizer.

During the seedling phase, frequent watering is required. After that, you don’t need to water often; just enough to keep the soil moist. 

6. Henry’s Lily

Names

The botanical name of Henry’s Lily is Lilium henryi. This flower also goes by other common such as Tiger Lily and Trumpet Lily.

Henry’s Lily is a wild species, so it belongs to the 9th Division.

Description and characteristics 

While Henry’s Lily doesn’t offer a fragrance, it more than makes up for it with showy blooms in a striking tropical orange color.

The petals feature patches of red bumps and a Turk’s Cap outline that bends back to almost touch the stalk. They can grow as tall as 8 feet in USDA zones 5 to 8.

How to care

Henry’s Lily is a low-maintenance plant with average water needs. It grows best in moist soil and will endure severe damage if the soil is left to dry out completely.

Although it can tolerate full sun exposure, this flower thrives in partial shade. It’s not fussy about the type of soil, but it prefers a loose, slightly alkaline medium with plenty of organic matter.

Additionally, Henry’s Lily is very resistant to diseases.

7. Tiger Lily

Names

The Tiger Lily is botanically known as Lilium tigrinum or Lilium lancifolium. You can also hear it commonly called the Leopard Lily, Chalisa-cup Lily, Oregon Lily, and Columbia Lily.

As a member of Division 9, the Tiger Lily is a wild species of lily.

Description and characteristics 

Originally from Asia, the Tiger Lily is now a natural occurrence across the United States, especially in the New England area.

This flower gets its name from the dark, purple-black spots spread all over the peachy orange petals that bend backward to come in contact with the stalk’s base.

This plant also possesses very dark stems that contrast beautifully against the bright orange blossoms.

Fragrant-less, the Tiger Lily blooms during the summer and grows in USDA zones 3 to 9. It can grow as tall as 5 feet.

How to care

Similar to most wild lilies on today’s list, the disease-resistant Tiger Lily is low maintenance. It can thrive in any type of soil at acidic or alkaline pH levels as long as it’s well-drained.

Watering should be done at least once a keep, making sure that the soil never dries out completely.

As for light requirements, the Tiger Lily enjoys both full sun and partial shade.

8. Leopard Lily

Names

The Leopard Lily is known in the botanical language as the Lilium pardalinum. Other common names for this flower are the Panther Lily, California Tiger Lily, Vollmer’s Lily, Vollmer’s Lily, Wiggins’ Lily, and Pitkin Marsh Lily.

The Leopard Lily is one of the parent lily species, which means it’s part of Division 9.

Description and characteristics 

This woodland species of lily produces blooms in a stunning orange-red shade that becomes a golden yellow at the center. The petals display dark spots that grant the flower its common name.

Native to North America, particularly from Oregon to California (the pacific coast area), the Leopard Lily resembles a small lantern dangling from an elongated stalk.

Giving off a pleasant scent, this flower grows in USDA zones 5 to 9 and can reach a height of up to 6 feet.

How to care

The Leopard Lily prefers full sun to partial shade and can adapt to any type of soil given that it’s well-drained, moist, and rich in organic matter.

It’s prone to attacks by gray mold, aphids, lily beetles, vine weevils, and slugs, so remember to regularly check the plant for unhealthy signs.

9. Madonna Lily

Names

The scientific name of the Madonna Lily is Lilium Candidum. This flower is also commonly referred to as the White Lily, Juno’s Rose, French Lily, Ascension Lily, St Joseph’s Lily, Bourbon Lily, and Annunciation Lily.

Occurring naturally in the wild, the Madonna Lily is categorized under Division 9.

Description and characteristics 

The Madonna Lily is one of the oldest species among all lilies, dating back to the times before Christianity.

This plant produces blooms in a crisp, white shade with large, broad petals. The bright yellow anthers sometimes neighbor a light green at the flower’s center.

Madonna Lilies blossom in the summer and give off a heavenly fragrance. They grow in USDA zones 6 to 9, reaching a height of up to 5 feet.

How to care

The beautiful Madonna Lily is a hassle-free plant maintenance-wise. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and doesn’t need frequent watering.

A well-drained soil that’s enriched with humus and always moist will keep this flower happy regardless of the soil type.

When planting the Madonna Lily, make sure that the bulb’s nose is covered by 1 inch of soil.

10. Martagon Lily

Names

The Martagon Lily is botanically known as the Lilium martagon. Its other common names include Turk’s Cap Lilies and Mountain Lilies.

Found in the wild, Martagon Lily is the last member of Division 9 on today’s list.

Description and characteristics 

The Martagon Lily plant blooms in sparse, green foliage and abundant, soft purple flowers that also exist in pink and pure white shades.

The pendant-like blossoms have the outline of a Turk’s Cap (which is the inspiration behind its common name) with the petals curving down and then back up to touch the flower’s base.

Highly fragrant, this lily grows as tall as 6 feet in USDA zone 5 to 8.

How to care

Like its fellow members of Division 9, the Martagon Lily prefers full to partial sun. It’s not picky about the type of soil, but it needs to be well-drained and constantly moist.

11. Elodie Lily

Names

Botanically known as Lilium ‘Elodie’, this lily species belongs to the Division 1 of the Asiatic hybrids.

Description and characteristics

This type of lily blooms with a double row of petals in a pretty shade of light pink. These showy blossoms are trumpet-shaped and adorned with raspberry-colored freckles.

The Elodie Lily plant is on the smaller side, growing to a maximum height of 4 feet in USDA zones 4 to 8.

Fantastic for cutting, these 5 to 6-inch flowers are pollen-free, so they’re ideal for bouquets and arrangements.

How to care

Elodie lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade and moist but well-drained soil. It’s not picky about the type or pH of the soil as long as there’s no standing water.

12. Enchantment Lily

Names

Known botanically as Lilium ‘Enchantment’, this lily species is part of Division 1 of the Asiatic hybrids.

Description and characteristics 

The Enchantment Lily produces magnificent blooms of intense orange petals and a faint dusting of brown freckles.

Flowering in the summer, this type of lily is a bit small with a maximum height of 4 feet. It grows in USDA zones 4 to 8.

This lily doesn’t typically have a fragrance, but they’re easy to reproduce thanks to the bulbils that form on the apex of each stem leaf.

How to care

The Enchantment Lily does best in full sun. It prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

13. Connecticut King Lily

Names

Botanically referred to as Lilium ‘Connecticut King’ and commonly called the Asiatic Lily, this lily species is categorized under Division 1 of the Asiatic hybrids.

Description and characteristics

The Connecticut King Lily produces spectacular blooms with buttercup yellow petals that turn golden at the center. These 4 to 6-inch wide flowers don’t have spots.

Blossoming in June, this lily plant is small. It grows to a maximum height of 3 feet in USDA zones 4 to 8.

This Connecticut King Lily doesn’t usually have a fragrance, but it looks amazingly cheerful in any setting.

How to care

This is a low-maintenance lily species with medium water needs and a knack for full sun to partial shade. Avoid dry soil and keep an eye out for aphids, botrytis, and bulb rot.

14. Roma Lily

Names

Known as Lilium ‘Roma’ in the botanical scene, this lily species is a member of Division 1: the Asiatic hybrids.

Description and characteristics 

The Roma Lily produces dramatic blooms that start as pink buds and develop into large white or creamy blossoms.

The trumpet-shaped petals are decorated with a few brown freckles near the base. The brown anthers give it a vanilla-like look.

Flowering in early summer (a bit later than other lilies of Division 1), this plant grows to a maximum height of 4 feet in USDA zones 3 to 9.

The Roma Lily is usually non-fragrant, but it’s excellent for cutting and mass planting.

How to care

This lily species thrives in full to partial sun. Regardless of the type or pH of the soil, it should always be moist and never with standing water.

15. Orange Pixie Lily

Names

Botanically referred to as Lilium ‘Orange Pixie’, this lily species belongs to Division 1 of the Asiatic hybrids. It’s a dwarf hybrid of the Pixie series lilies.

Description and characteristics 

Orange Pixie lilies produce astonishing blooms with vibrant fiery orange petals and dark green strappy leaves. The large flower faces up and out with a funnel-shaped outline.

Flowering earlier than most members of Division 1, this dwarf lily blossoms from June to August. It grows to a maximum height of 1.5 feet in USDA zones 2 to 9.

Typically non-fragrant, this type of lily is perfect for containers, pots, and cutting.

How to care

The Orange Pixie Lily does best in full sun to partial shade. Chalky, sandy, or loamy soil is suitable as long as it’s well-drained, constantly moist, and enriched with well-rotted organic matter.

It may be prone to lily disease, aphids, lily beetles, thrips, and gray mold.

16. Denia Pixie Lily

Names

Also known as Lilium ‘Denia Pixie’, this lily species is one of the members of Division 1; the Asiatic hybrids. Like the Orange Pixie Lily, this is a dwarf hybrid of the Pixie series lilies.

Description and characteristics

A little less loud than Orange Pixie, the Denia Pixie plant produces lovely blooms of pale pink petals and yellow centers. The oversized trumpet-shaped flower features sprinkles of burgundy spots for extra personality.

Blossoming earlier than most members of Division 1, this dwarf lily grows to a maximum height of 1.5 feet in USDA zones 3 to 8.

Normally non-fragrant, this type of lily looks awesome for cutting, edging, and low borders.

How to care

The Denia Pixie Lily enjoys full sun to partial shade. It’s fine with any soil type or pH as long as it’s well-drained and never completely dry.

17. Marhan Lily

Names

Botanically known as Lilium X Dalhansonii, the Marhan Lily belongs to Division 2 consisting of Martagon-type Hybrids. It’s been around for over a century and shows off features from both parent lilies: Lilium martagon and Lilium hansonii.

Description and characteristics

The Marhan Lily blooms into honey or salmon-colored petals with dense brown freckles for an overall sultry appearance.

While the petals do curve backward to try and touch the base, they don’t bend as intensely as the parent lilies.

Flowering in early summer, this species can grow as high as 6 feet in USDA zones 3 to 7. 

How to care

The Marhan Lily is low maintenance. It thrives in partial sun to slight shade and isn’t particular about the soil type given that it has good drainage.

18. Nankeen Lily

Names

Known as Lilium x Testaceum in the botanical scene and commonly as the buff-colored lily, this lily species belongs to Division 3 consisting of Candidum Hybrids.

It’s the result of crossing Lilium chalcedonicum (scarlet Turk’s Cap) and Lilium Candidum.

Description and characteristics

As we mentioned earlier, the Madonna Lily is one of the oldest species among all lilies. It dates back to the times before Christianity; that’s at least 4,000 years old!

The Madonna plant produces flowers with large, broad petals of crisp, white color. They feature bright yellow anthers and -sometimes- a light green center.

Despite its fame, not many cultivars have been made using the Madonna Lily. The only known hybrid is the Lilium x Testaceum.

The Nankeen Lily is a rare sight, but it looks pretty much the same as the Madonna only with a salmon-cream color. Showy and fragrant, this bloom ranges from 3 to 4 inches wide, whereas the plant can reach as high as 5 feet.

How to care

If you manage to get your hands on a Nankeen Lily, provide full sun exposure and well-drained soil with average watering frequency. Expect blooming during late spring or early summer.

19. Bellingham Lily

Names

Botanically known as Lilium ‘Bellingham’, this lily species belongs to Division 4 consisting of hybrids of North American wild lilies. Like most flowers of this class, it comes from Lilium pardalinum (the Leopard Lily).

Description and characteristics

The Bellingham Lily plant produces blooms in a wide range of vibrant, warm shades of orange, red, maroon, yellow, and burgundy. The petals are adorned with black and brown spots.

This vigorous plant can reach a height of up to 6 feet, forming tall spikes with green leaf whorls covering them. They blossom in midsummer, finding appropriate conditions in USDA zones 4 to 8.

How to care

The Bellingham Lily doesn’t require much maintenance. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate some shade.

Soil-wise, loam or sand is a suitable medium as long as drainage is efficient. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering.

20. Cherrywood Lily

Names

Scientifically known as Lilium ‘Cherrywood’, this type of lily is a member of Division 4 since it’s a hybrid of a North American wild lily. Its parent is the Leopard Lily (Lilium pardalinum).

Description and characteristics 

The Cherrywood Lily plant produces flowers in a gorgeous, fiery shade of blood orange with rich red at the tips of the petals and a lighter tangerine shade at the center. The petals also feature red freckles for extra showiness.

Similar to the Bellingham Lily, this long-lasting plant can reach a height of up to 5 or 6 feet. It forms tall spikes with deep green leaf whorls all over.

The Cherrywood Lily blossoms in midsummer, preferring growth conditions of USDA zones 4 to 8.

How to care

Like the Bellingham Lily, the Cherrywood hybrid is low maintenance. It enjoys full sunlight and hot temperatures.

It needs well-drained soil regardless of the type and pH. Its delicate rhizomatous bulbs require extra care when moving.

21. White American Lily

Names

Botanically referred to as Lilium longiflorum ‘White American’, this species of lily is part of Division 5 consisting of Longiflorum Hybrids. Its parent is the popular Easter Lily, highly prized for having pure white flowers and an alluring fragrance.

Description and characteristics 

The White American Lily has a trumpet-shaped outline. It looks as pure as the Easter Lily, with oversized white blooms, dark yellow anthers, and pale green tips.

Compared to the extremely tender Easter Lily, the White American Lily is a lot sturdier and better at coping with environmental conditions. It can grow as tall as 4 feet in USDA zones 4 to 8, with upright stems showing off lance-like dark green leaves.

Blossoming in the summer, these lilies give off a sweet scent and make for great border plants.

How to care

The White American Lily does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers slightly alkaline, well-drained soil with consistent moisture and adequate fertilization. 

22. Golden Splendor Lily

Names

Next up is the Lilium ‘Golden Splendor’ as it’s botanically known. This type of lily belongs to Division 6, consisting of Trumpet and Aurelian Hybrids.

Description and characteristics

The Golden Splendor Lily produces large 6-inch wide blooms with golden yellow petals.

The vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers are pale purple on the outside and possess brown antlers to tie the beautiful color scheme together.

Deliciously fragrant, each stem of this lily hybrid carries clusters of around 12 to 20 blossoms. The plant can grow as tall as 4 feet -typical for trumpet hybrids- in USDA zones 4 to 8.

Flowering in mid to late summer, the Golden Splendor Lily is excellent for cutting, containers, and borders.

How to care

The Golden Splendor Lily doesn’t need much to thrive. It can call any type of soil home as long as it’s well-drained and slightly alkaline.

This species does best in full sun or part shade. It tends to resist drought more efficiently than most other types of lilies.

23. Trumpet Lily

Names

Another member of the Trumpet and Aurelian Hybrids Division 6 is Lilium ‘African Queen’, also referred to as the Trumpet Lily.

Description and characteristics

The Trumpet Lily produces large 8-inch wide blooms with zesty orange petals that curve out and slightly up.

The trumpet-shaped flowers feature pale purple patches on the outside paired with rust-brown antlers to create a fascinating tropical vibe.

Giving off a heavenly fragrance, each stem of this lily hybrid carries clusters of around 15 to 20 blossoms. The plant can reach a maximum height of 6 feet -taller than typical trumpet hybrids- in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Flowering between July and August, the Trumpet Lily is terrific for cutting, pots, and borders. It received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit in 2002.

How to care

The Trumpet Lily is a hassle-free plant when it comes to maintenance. It can adapt to any soil type or pH as long as it’s well-drained and kept moist.

This species grows best in full sun or part shade. It enjoys hot climates but can survive in a variety of temperatures.

24. Bright Star Lily

Names

Botanically known as Lilium ‘Bright Star’, this movie-inspired species of lily is part of Division 6 Trumpet and Aurelian Hybrids. Its parents are  Lilium henryi and Lilium centifolium.

Description and characteristics

The Bright Star Lily produces dramatic blooms with a pink-orange color in the middle of the petals and white borders. This pattern results in a star-like look, which is where the flower got its name.

This flower also displays deep red spots and dark orange anthers that provide additional character. The outline of the flower is flatter compared to other members of Division 6.

Offering passersby a wonderful fragrance, the Bright Star Lily grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet in USDA zones 4 to 9. They bloom in late summer to early fall.

How to care

This lily hybrid prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires occasional watering and can do with any type of well-drained soil that’s kept moist.

25. Pink Perfection Group Lily

Names

Known as Lilium Pink Perfection Group in the botanical scene, this is the last flower from Division 6 on today’s list.

Description and characteristics

If you think you’ve seen a large lily bloom until now, the Pink Perfection Group Lily is even bigger!

It’s a massive 10-inch wide blossom with stunning pink and purple petals with dark pink freckles.

The centers are bright yellow with dark pink others and the tips are frosted in pure white for a show-stopping appearance!

Flowering in summer, this plant grows as tall as 6 feet in USDA zones 4 to 9.

How to care

The Pink Perfection Group Lily does best in full sun to partial shade. They like high temperatures and have no issues accepting any soil type or PH given that it has efficient drainage.

26. Dizzy Lily

Names

Botanically known as Lilium ‘Dizzy’, this species of lily belongs to Division 7 Oriental Hybrids.

Description and characteristics 

This plant produces gorgeous blooms where white, slightly ruffled petals are decorated with raspberry-colored stripes down the center and red freckles on both sides.

With a delightful scent, the Dizzy Lily blossoms during the summer in USDA zones 5 to 9.

How to care

This type of lily enjoys full and partial sunlight and slightly acidic, well-drained soil.

27. Casa Blanca Lily

Names

Another member of Division 7 is the Lilium Casa Blanca or White House Lily.

Description and characteristics

As the name implies, this flower possesses pure white petals without any freckles or patches. The anthers are deep orange whereas the center has a faint green hue.

Each stem produces around 6 to 8 of these heavily scented lilies. The plant grows to reach about 4 feet tall in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Blossoming in mid to late summer, the Casa Blanca Lily is fantastic for cutting and containers.

How to care

Keep this lily hybrid in full sun or part shade to thrive. You can choose any type of slightly acidic soil, but make sure it’s well-drained.

28. Black Beauty Lily

Names

Last but not least, the Lilium Black Beauty or the Orienpet Lily belongs to Division 8 consisting of Interdivisional Hybrids. 

Description and characteristics 

Unlike what their name suggests, the petals on these lilies have pale pink tips that turn into a dark crimson toward the center with narrow white edges. They also possess deep purple spikes for a more intriguing look.

This plant requires plenty of space as it can produce up to 150 flowers per bulb. It can reach 6 feet tall in USDA zones 4 to 9.

How to care

The Black Beauty Lily thrives in full sun and well-drained, moist soil.

What Are the Most Popular Lily Types?

The most popular lily types include the Easter Lily, Tiger Lily, Turk’s Cap, and Casa Blanca Lily.

Which Lillies Are the Easiest To Grow?

The easiest lilies to grow are those belonging to Division 1 Asiatic lilies such as the Orange Pixie Lily, Enchantment Lily, and Connecticut King Lily.

FAQS

What Do the Colors of Lilies Mean?

As you can tell by now, lilies come in a wide variety of shades and patterns. Each of these colors has a certain symbolism and knowing it helps you choose the appropriate flower shade for the occasion.

Here’s a quick summary of the most common colors in lilies and their meanings:

• White: this color represents purity, innocence, grace, modesty, and elegance. It’s a great choice for weddings and ceremonies.
• Red: this color embodies passion, romance, love, desire, and devotion. It’s a terrific option for anniversaries, date nights, and Valentine’s Day.
• Pink: light pink indicates femininity, generosity, admiration, and charm. It’s a fantastic choice for gifting loved ones, wedding arrangements, and Mother’s Day bouquets.

Dark pink represents abundance, prosperity, and ambition. It’s a fine option for formal ceremonies and well wishes.

• Purple: this color is a sign of mystery, wisdom, royalty, and success. It’s a wonderful choice for anniversaries, birthdays, and gratitude gestures.
• Yellow: this color symbolizes joy, cheerfulness, happiness, health, and appreciation. Such lilies make fantastic bouquets for birthdays, saying thank you, sending congratulations, or welcoming parties.
• Orange: this color represents enthusiasm, excitement, good fortune, vitality, wealth, and confidence. It’s a fabulous gift for graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings 

Wrapping It Up

Lilies are gorgeous flowers with striking patterns, vibrant hues, alluring scents, and intriguing outlines. They’re also easy to care for, so you don’t need much gardening experience to grow them!

As you can tell by now, there’s no shortage of options, and no matter what you pick, striking beauty is guaranteed!

The post 30 Fascinating Types of Lilies appeared first on Garden and Plant Care.

Liliaceae is the umbrella term for approximately 50 genera and 600 species belonging to the order Liliales. They’re a mix of perennial, herbaceous, monocotyledonous, and bulbous flowering plants.

Quick Summary

Liliaceae is a family that houses hundreds of species, one of which is lilies. Said plant has different shapes, sizes, and colors. 

Since their first appearance, lilies have become a staple in decorations like jewelry and paintings. On top of that, they’ve become popular with florists and gardeners alike because of their fragrance and beauty.

What Are True Lilies?

True Lilies are part of the genus Lilium. They grow from fleshy bulbs whose scales often overlap with each other. 

The stalk of true lilies grows at the center of the bulb. Plus, their roots emerge from a disk that you’ll often find at the bottom of the flower.

What Are Other Names?

Aside from true lilies, there are other names used for the different genera of Liliacea plants.

Blue bead lilies are flowering plants belonging to the genus Clintonia. They sport basal and cauline leaves. In addition, they produce berry-like fruits that often have a metallic blue to black tint.

On the other hand, there are globe lilies that belong to the Caochortus genus. They’re also flowering plants that have two series of tepals. The outer part is narrow and similar to a sepal, while the inner portion resembles petals.

Lastly, there are toad lilies, which are from the genus Tricytris. They’re herbaceous perennials whose stems are typically erect. Moreover, they have six tepals arranged into two layers: the outer part carries nectar-secreting pouches, while the inner has dorsal crests.

Where Are Lilies From?

According to a 2006 study, lilies are dominant in the Northern Hemisphere. Most species come from countries located in North America, Asia, and Europe. 

However, production of the said plant has begun in the Southern Hemisphere. As such, you can find them in countries like Chile, Australia, and South Africa.

With that said, lilies have already spread throughout the entire world. Countries producing the plant have already cultivated their own varieties, meaning they’re constantly evolving.

Liliaceae Family Description and Characteristics

You should know the physical description and characteristics to understand lilies and the Liliaceae family further.

What Is the Physical Description of Lilies?

True lilies have six tepal flowers that vary in shape. They can be funnel, bell, bowl, trumpet, or flat. In some plants, they’re entirely erect, while others are nodding.

The flowers they produce come in many colors except blue. It’s because the plants don’t naturally have the necessary pigment necessary to create the shade. 

What Are the Characteristics of Liliaceae?

The Liliaceae family are herbaceous perennial plants. It means that after they produce fruits and flowers, every part of their body dies except their roots.

It often happens during winter, as this is the time when they enter a dormancy period. However, they’ll burst back into life when spring comes.

When it comes to their roots, they’re typically fibrous. Their stems, on the other hand, are either underground or aerial. The former comes as a bulb, corm, or rhizome, while the latter is often a phylloclade.

Their leaves can be exstipulate, petiolate, or sessile. They vary in size and shape, depending on the species and genus. Moreover, they often have parallel venation.

Lastly, their flowers are trimerous and hypogynous. Trimerous means that they only have three petals. Hypogynous refers to the attachment of their stamens and perianth below the carpel, the plant’s female reproductive organ.

Popular Lilies

Below are some of the popular lilies that people like to grow in their gardens:

1. Easter Lily

An Eastern lily is one of the most well-known variants of the plant. It has a white, elongated, trumpet-shaped flower that blooms during Summer.

2. Stargazer

Stargazer lilies sport upward-facing flowers that have pink and white coloration. Their color combination highly resembles a red dragonfruit.

3. Tiger Lily

Tiger lilies have bell-shaped orange flowers with brown specks. This variety is popular due to its hardiness because it can survive extreme temperatures.

4. Elodie

Elodie lilies are unique because of their pink pastel color. They have semi-double blooms accompanied by raspberry-colored freckles.

5. Turk’s Cap

Turk’s cap, more popularly known as Martagon lilies, exhibits tall spikes with loads of small pagoda-shaped flowers. The petals are usually orange with dark specks.

History

Understanding the interesting history of lilies will also enlighten you as to why this plant is extremely popular.

What Is the History and Uses of Lilies?

Lilies, specifically Madona lilies, made their first appearance several millennia ago. Loads of people from Crete, Greece, and Mesopotamia incorporated the plant into their jewelry and other decorations.

Moreover, Ancient Egyptians gave the plant to the deceased as an offering. On the other hand, the Romans and Greeks treasured it too. 

It’s because, according to their beliefs, Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, became extremely jealous of the lily due to its beauty. As such, she decided to put elongated pistils at the center of the plant, making it less attractive.

What Are Lilies Cultivated For?

People cultivated lilies as a medicinal ointment. On top of that, the ancients grew bulbs as they were also one of their food sources.

Additionally, they became a popular decoration during 1675-1750 B.C. People often presented this flower through Cretan vases and paintings, which exhibited their beauty, color, and fragrance.

What Do People Associate Lilies To?

Considering that there’s a plethora of species and varieties in the Liliaeceae family, their meanings and symbolism vary.

However, people commonly associate lilies with purity and rebirth. It’s mainly because said flowers are always present in religious iconography. They often represent the Virgin Mary and even the Ressurection of Christ.

What Are the Common Types of Lilies?

The Royal Horticultural Society has classified common types of lilies into several divisions based on their habit and flower type:

1. Asiatic Hybrids

These flowers are cold-hardy, meaning they can withstand lower temperatures. Regarding their size, they range from small to medium. 

When it comes to their shape, they typically form a bowl. Their colors are uniform, but there can be conspicuous brushmarks. They also don’t have any scents.

2. Martagon Hybrids

This division produces down-facing flowers with thick recurved petals. These flowers vary in color, but the most common are pink, lavender, yellow, light orange, and dark red.

Plus, they have speckles and freckles.

3. Euro-Caucasian Hybrids

Also known as Candidum hybrids, these are pale-colored medium-sized flowers that have a bell shape. They often have a sweet fragrance. 

Additionally, their colors can be orange, yellow, pink, or mauve. Their underside usually features a darker shade.

A few examples of these hybrids are June Fragrance and Nankeen. Both flowers feature a strong yet sweet scene, and they can grow up to four feet tall.

4. American Hybrids

American hybrids are medium-sized down-facing pendent flowers whose colors range from yellow to orange. From the name itself, these are native to America.

Popular American hybrids are Lilium Bellingham, which is a spiky plant with whorled leaves, and Lily ‘Cherrywood,’ which sports a red flower whose foliage whorls.

5. Longiflorum Hybrids

Longiflorum hybrids have flowers whose size ranges from medium to large, and their colors are mainly white. In addition, brushmarks aren’t present.

This is one of the most popular flowers for florists and green thumbs because they resemble a Magnolia tree.

6. Trumpet and Aurelian Hybrids

This division features trumpet-shaped flowers with a cream, white, yellow, or pink tint. They typically have a contrasting band of colors on the outside.

7. Oriental Hybrids

These are the result of interbreeding between Lilium speciosum and Lilium auratum. 

Oriental hybrids are bowl-shaped flowers with recurved tepals. The inner part is broad, with its margins overlapping at the base, giving off a “closed” look. They’re usually white or pink to purplish red.

8. Species and Cultivars of Species

The last division consists of all species and their subspecies, forms, varieties, and cultivars. Simply put, these wild lilies are “parents” of the other classes.

As such, this division is vital because other hybrids wouldn’t exist without them.

Flowering

Lilies bloom once during early summer until fall. As mentioned earlier, they’re perennial plants, meaning they need a dormancy period to recuperate before initiating a new flowering cycle.

Whenever they bloom, it lasts up to three weeks. However, the longevity and the number of flowers they produce depend on the species and if you’ve used fertilizers.

Toxicity

According to the FDA, lilies are highly toxic to cats. Even though the toxin remains undiscovered, many people had reported that their pets experienced kidney failure and other health issues. It occurred when the cats ate a part of the plant or drank water from the vase. 

Moreover, they’ve stated that the true lily and daylily families are one of the most toxic for cats. Eating or licking a part of the flower can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

In addition, lilies can be toxic to dogs too. Calla and peace lilies have insoluble crystals that instantly irritate their mouth, throat, and esophagus when consumed.

If you have any pets in your home, try to avoid putting lilies indoors. It’s a preventive measure to ensure your furry friends won’t experience any health issues.

Before You Go: Final Tips to Help Grow Lilies

If you’ve become interested in growing lilies, make sure to note these tips so your plants will grow healthy:

1. Choose What Type Best Suits You

Liliaceae plants come in various colors, heights, and flower styles. Moreover, some are cold-hardy, while some are sensitive to the weather. 

So, you have to ensure that the lily you’ll start growing will suit your preference and your location.

2. Plant the Bulbs Carefully

True lilies come in true bulbs that don’t come with a protective covering. That said, you should plant them as soon as possible to prevent them from drying out.

In addition, they’re incredibly delicate, so you should handle them carefully when planting to avoid breaking the scales.

3. Maintain Good Soil

Like any other plant, lilies need excellent soil for them to be able to grow correctly. As such, the medium shouldn’t be too moist, as it’ll promote root rot.

On the other hand, it shouldn’t be too dry either because your plant can wither.

4. Provide Enough Room

When lilies grow, they don’t want to become crowded. It’s because they only produce a few leaves, and all of them need to become exposed to sunlight.

With that said, when you’re going to plant lilies, ensure that you’re giving them enough room. If you think that they’re too close to each other, to the extent that some leaves are starting to overlap, immediately transfer them.

5. Plant Bulbs in Groups

If you want to make your lilies look visually appealing, you should plant them in groups of three or five.

However, ensure that you’re spacing them, preferably 10 inches apart from one another, depending on the variety.

FAQs

What is an Oriental Lily?

Oriental lilies come from the interbreeding of species, like Lilium auratum and Lilium japonicum. These kinds of plants are popular for their fragrance and rich colors.

How to care for Lilies?

Aside from watering regularly, you should keep the soil moist in winter. Despite the plants undergoing dormancy, their roots can still dry out.

Additionally, you should apply fertilizer and compost for the lilies to become healthy.

Can Lilies rebloom?

Most lilies only bloom once. However, there are now loads of re-blooming varieties, such as the Hemerocallis ‘Advanced Party’ Daylily, which can bloom during late summer.

What to do when Lilies have finished flowering?

You can either deadhead, prune, or cut your lilies after they have finished flowering. Doing these won’t only remove dead stems and foliage, but they also give the plants room for new growth.

How do Lilies look?

Lilies vary in physical appearance depending on their species. However, they commonly have six plain trumpet or bell-shaped tepals. They also have erect stems with narrow leaves.

What do Oriental Lilies symbolize?

The flower symbolizes innocence, purity, and fertility.

How long do Lilies live for?

Lilies have a lifespan of two years if properly cared for. If you keep them in a vase, they’ll last for two weeks.

What soil should I use?

For lilies, you should use soil rich in organic matter, such as manure, sawdust, and lawn clippings. On top of that, it should have a pH level of 6.0 to 6.5.

Can I use fertilizer?

Definitely! You can use organic fish fertilizer or granular fertilizer for lilies. Just make sure to avoid plant foods high in nitrogen to prevent insect infestation and diseases.

How much sun do Lilies need?

Lilies thrive in full sun. As such, sunlight exposure for more than six hours is vital.

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