“Stargazer” lilies (Lilium orientalis “Stargazer”) are big, showy Oriental lilies initially developed in Arcata, California, in the mid-1970s. Named for their upward-facing flowers, these lilies initially came only in a single pinkish-red and white color scheme. While this is still the most common kind of the “Stargazer” lily, gardeners are now able to choose different colors to brighten their planting structures. The flowers prosper in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Identification
No matter what colour edition you plant, your “Stargazer” lilies can be recognized with their tall, upright shape and very big flowers. On average, this range produces six to nine heaven, every one between 8 and 6 inches across. Unlike many Asiatic lilies, which can seem similar, “Stargazer” flowers have a strong, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators and can perfume an whole room.
Pink and White
The first “Stargazer” lily has deep red to pink petals with narrow white margins. The interior of these petals is speckled and striped with darker pink to crimson tones, while the middle of this blossom is light yellow with bright orange anthers and pollen. It’s ideal to shake this pollen off of cut blooms prior to pulling them inside, since this tends to maintain the flowers to get a longer period.
Yellow
Yellow “Stargazer” lilies are a relatively new development, but “Golden Stargazer” provides a change of color for your garden. These flowers have exactly the identical upward-facing development habit of their white and pink family members, but their petals are an even yellowish-gold all around. The inner part of the flower will be speckled with bright orange to crimson spots, while the anthers are reddish with red pollen. This kind of “Stargazer” lily produces blooms that average only 5 to 6 inches across.
White
White “Stargazer” variants such as “Snow Princess” remain fairly uncommon at publication time however provide an impressive alternative to the standard colors. These 5- to 7-inch flowers are very open and upright, instead of the frillier appearance of several other white lily cultivars. They have clear, bright white to cream petals and dark red to orange anthers with colored pollen. The center of this flower is often light green. Unlike a few other white cones, these blooms lack speckles, lines or other imperfections.
Warning
While all of the colors of the “Stargazer” cultivar can be extremely lovely and striking, they also pose a danger to pets. This popular kind of lily is very poisonous to cats and can lead to kidney failure and death. Keep cats away from outside lily plantings and prevent bringing cut blossoms inside to secure your pets.