Hemerocallis Roswitha - Daylily

The Hemerocallis or Daylily 'Roswitha' is a compact, floriferous and charming variety, well suited for ornamental borders, small spaces and flowering pots. Its flowers are small but double and beautifully bicoloured in pastel peach and purple. This small daylily blooms abundantly in early summer, and its foliage is deciduous in winter.

The Hemerocallis genus belongs to the Liliaceae or daylily family according to classifications. They are hardy perennial plants with deciduous foliage, sometimes semi-evergreen. 'Roswitha', obtained in 1992 by Trimmer, is the result of cross-breeding between the cultivars Exotic Echo and Janice Brown. The plant forms a fairly dense clump that reaches about 35 cm (14in) in height, with a relative spread of 30 cm (12in). Daylilies tend to spread a bit when they like the soil. The flowers are round and measure about 8.5 cm (3in) in diameter. They are composed of thick, wavy, iridescent petals with an undulated edge. Their base colour is a barely pinkish cream, enhanced by a large area of contrasting purple around the green throat. Each flower blooms in the morning and lasts only a day, but the flowering is abundant between June and July. The foliage is linear, bright green and deciduous in winter: it emerges from the ground in spring and dries up in autumn. Daylilies are plants with short rhizomes and fleshy roots that tolerate dry soils, but they are more opulent and floriferous in moist soil.

These plants are easy to grow and thrive in 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 type of environment. It is also known for its lack of modesty, as it exudes a beautiful exuberance that blends well with other perennials. Plant them in generous clumps at the back of your flower beds. All summer bulb flowers (lilies, agapanthus, ixias...) can be planted alongside daylilies. 'Roswitha' is a delightful variety that should be showcased at the front of flower beds, along pathways, or in a beautiful pot on the patio. It pairs well with small grasses, agastaches, lavenders and nepetas. The flowers are edible: they brighten up salads and decorate desserts.