Hemerocallis Lullaby Baby - Daylily

The Daylily or Hemerocallis 'Lullaby Baby' is a remarkable small variety, awarded multiple times in the United States. It offers delicately fringed, perfectly round and fragrant flowers, a very pale salmon pink that shines in the sun, surrounding a lime green throat. In this variety, the flowers remain open until evening instead of closing in the afternoon. It blooms at the beginning of the daylily season and for an extended period. This perennial is a summer jewel, magnificent in borders and perfect in a romantic or even natural setting. It is easy to cultivate, even in pots, for many years.

The genus Hemerocallis belongs to the family Liliaceae. These are  perennial and hardy plants with deciduous, sometimes semi-evergreen foliage. The variety 'Lullaby Baby', obtained in 1975 and of unknown parentage, continues its career as an exceptional cultivar. It grows quickly in a reasonably dense clump that reaches 45 cm (18in) in height, with a relative spread of 50 cm (20in); daylilies tend to spread a bit when they like the terrain. The flowers measure approximately 8 cm (3in) in diameter. Every detail of this flower is perfect, including its discreet and delicately floral fragrance. Its petals are thick and wavy, undulating along the edges, giving it a slightly tousled and gentle appearance. The satin substance of the floral parts reflects light admirably. Each flower lasts only a day, but the flowering repeats continuously over a beautiful period between June and July. The stems are sturdy and allow for gorgeous bouquets. The foliage is linear and semi-evergreen. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots that tolerate dry soils but are more lush and floriferous in moist soil.

Very easy to grow, these plants thrive in both shade and sun. Some can be invasive, so don't hesitate to divide the clumps every four or five years, preferably in autumn, after flowering. The daylily is often called "the perfect perennial plant" because of its vibrant colours and ability to tolerate any environment. It is also due to its lack of modesty, as it is beautifully exuberant and blends well with other perennials. Plant them in generous clumps in the background of your borders. All summer bulb flowers can be planted alongside daylilies. 'Lullaby Baby' will fit perfectly in the setting of a romantic garden, with campanulas, penstemons, perennial flaxes or phloxes by its side. It will be superb on a balcony or patio. Large pots of at least 30 cm (12in) deep should be provided, choosing from the dwarf varieties. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and decorate desserts.