Hemerocallis Pinocchio - Daylily

Although the Daylily or Hemerocallis 'Pinocchio' is certainly not a spectacular variety with huge and intricate flowers, this small, stocky plant is a ball of energy that delivers an early and endless flowering, starting in early June and lasting until August. Its small flowers are light, barely undulating stars but brightly coloured in a soft yellow-orange marked with a brown-red eye in the centre of the petals. 'Pinocchio is an excellent border daylily, exceptionally generous and easy to grow in a not too dry soil. Also, place this daylily full of joy and good humour in a large pot on the patio or balcony!

The genus Hemerocallis belongs to the family Liliaceae. They are  perennial and hardy plants whose foliage is deciduous, sometimes semi-evergreen. The variety 'Pinocchio', obtained in 1951, remains one of the best small-sized varieties. It grows quickly in a fairly dense clump that will reach 40 cm (16in) in height, with a relative spread of 40 cm (16in); daylilies tend to spread a little when they like where they are planted. The flowers measure about 8 cm (3in) in diameter. Its petals are quite narrow and weakly undulated on the edges, with a soft yellow colour with orange reflections, marked with a central brown area in the shape of a V. Each flower lasts no more than a day, but the flowering repeats continuously over a very long period between June and August. The stems are stocky and robust and bear many elongated buds. The foliage is linear, bright green and dormant in winter. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots that tolerate dry soils but are more opulent and floriferous in fresh soil.

Very easy to grow, these plants thrive in shade and sun. Some are 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 type of environment. Due to its lack of modesty, it is beautifully exuberant and goes well with other perennials. Plant them in generous clumps at the back of your flower beds. All summer bulb flowers can be planted alongside daylilies. 'Pinocchio will blend perfectly with the decor of a flower garden, planted in large borders in front of crocosmias, penstemons, perennial flaxes or hostas. On a balcony or patio, it will be superb. 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, each having its own unique flavour!