Lilium Nesso

The 'Nesso' lily is a bicoloured variety of the Oriental lily group. It offers a beautiful flower in a golden yellow colour that blooms in a star shape before blending into a wide white margin. It is nicely contrasted and highlighted by brown anthers. The petals are curved and wavy, emphasizing the star pattern. This Oriental lily is also nicely scented and faithfully blooms in well-drained soil without limestone in a flower bed, in a pot, or even in a large rock garden.

The Lillium genus belongs to the Liliaceae family, its representatives are bulbous plants whose deciduous vegetation disappears in winter. In spring, leafy stems emerge from the ground and form a narrow, vertical clump. 'Nesso' is a horticultural hybrid obtained by cross-breeding various species native to the Far East. This plant reaches approximately 1m to 1.20m high when in bloom, and the clump spreads indefinitely over time, with the bulbs producing bulblets through vegetative multiplication. In August, umbels of flowers appear, facing outward and well-displayed. They are trumpet-shaped and very wide, measuring up to 25cm in diameter, and are very pleasantly scented. These impressive corollas are golden yellow and white. The stamens bear pollen which is brown when ripe, completing the harmony of colours. The sturdy stems are covered with alternate, dark green, shiny, lance-shaped leaves.

Oriental lilies are slightly more challenging to grow than Asian lilies if the conditions are not right. They need well-drained soil, rich in humus. Any soil that retains winter moisture is harmful to the bulbs. They do not like limestone soils, and the colours are more intense in acidic soil. Partial shade, especially in the afternoon, helps prolong the duration and preserve the brightness of the flowers. For a harmonious flower bed, combine the 'Nesso' Lily with lilies in different shades of yellow, orange, or white, gladioli, or daylilies. Incorporating grasses and perennial plants around the lily is beneficial for shading the soil and stabilising the stems against wind and rain. Also, grow it on the edge of a grove, surrounded by small bushes such as rhododendrons or azaleas. This lily is also perfect for creating beautiful bouquets.