Lilium asiatica Landini - Lily

The Asian lily 'Landini' is a recent creation, with large flowers richly coloured in garnet red, with black reflections depending on the light, on purple petals so dark that they also appear black. A rare colour and paradoxically bright for the darkest of lilies. Easy to grow in non-limestone soil, this variety is prolific and long-lasting, to the point that you will need to make room for it. Once well established, it faithfully blooms every year and quickly naturalises in flower beds, pots, or even large rockeries. Its association with white or pale pink flowers is sensational in the garden as well as in bouquets.

The genus Lilium belongs to the lily family, these representatives are bulbous plants with deciduous foliage, having, from spring, a narrow and very vertical habit. 'Landini' is a hybrid obtained by cross-breeding various species from Asia Minor and Central Asia. This plant will reach 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35in) in height when in bloom, and the clump will spread indefinitely over time, with the bulbs producing bulblets through vegetative multiplication. The spectacle of its flowering takes place in July-August. Along the sturdy stems appear 5 to 8 flowers measuring up to 12 cm (5in) in diameter, on a mature plant. They are fleshy and shiny like satin, in a whirlwind of garnet, purple, black, and even pink reflections that play with the light. The stamens are covered with orange pollen, the pistil crowned with old pink completing the harmony of colours. This flower does not fade in the sun. The stems are very sturdy, covered with alternate, dark green, narrow, and shiny leaves.

A plant that thrives in rich humus soil, this lily thrives year after year in neutral, humus-rich, well-drained, and light soil. You can associate it with perennial plants as it appreciates having its base in the shade. 'Landini' pairs well with pink or white daylilies, Heuchera, campanulas, and creeping Phlox that will cover its base with an elegant carpet. This medium-sized lily is ideal for borders, flower beds, and of course, bouquets.