Lilies are among the most beautiful flowers in any garden. Their large, bright blooms and sweet fragrance can transform your yard into a summer paradise. Many types of lilies bloom for only a short period. But if you choose the right varieties, you can enjoy their beauty all summer long.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 8 lilies that bloom throughout the summer. These selections are easy to grow and bring long-lasting color to your garden. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, these lilies are sure to add charm and cheer to your outdoor space.
1. Asiatic Lilies: Early Summer Stars
Asiatic lilies are some of the earliest blooming lilies. They usually start flowering in late spring and continue into early summer. These lilies are perfect if you want a strong start to your summer garden.
Bright and Bold Colors
Asiatic lilies come in many colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. Their blooms are often speckled or spotted, adding extra interest.
Easy to Grow
They are one of the easiest lilies to grow. They do well in most soil types and need full sun or light shade. Asiatic lilies grow to about 2 to 4 feet tall.
Long Bloom Time
While each bloom lasts only a few days, the plants produce many buds. This means you can enjoy fresh flowers for several weeks.
Great for Cut Flowers
These lilies look amazing in bouquets and vases. Their upright stems and sturdy blooms make them ideal for cutting.
2. LA Hybrid Lilies: The Perfect Mid-Summer Bloom
LA hybrid lilies are a cross between Longiflorum (Easter lilies) and Asiatic lilies. They bloom in early to mid-summer and are known for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers.
Big and Beautiful Blooms
LA hybrids have larger blooms than Asiatic lilies and come in soft pastels like cream, peach, and pink. They have a light, pleasant scent.
Strong Stems
Their stems are tall and sturdy, which helps them stand strong in windy areas. They usually grow 3 to 4 feet high.
Good for Mass Planting
Because they are reliable and bloom in clusters, LA hybrids work well in borders and large flower beds.
Minimal Maintenance
They don’t need much care. Just plant them in well-draining soil with good sun exposure.
3. Trumpet Lilies: The Fragrant Giants of Summer
Trumpet lilies bloom in mid to late summer. They are known for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers and strong fragrance.
Amazing Fragrance
If you love scented flowers, trumpet lilies are a must-have. Their perfume can fill your entire garden.
Tall and Majestic
These lilies can grow up to 6 feet tall. Their height and striking blooms make them excellent backdrops in flower beds.
Colors and Varieties
They come in creamy whites, yellows, and pinks. ‘Regale’ is a popular white trumpet lily with a gold throat.
Long Bloom Time
Each plant can have up to 15 blooms, and they open over a period of several weeks.
4. Oriental Lilies: Late Summer Showstoppers
Oriental lilies bloom later than other types, usually in mid to late summer. They are prized for their intense fragrance and large, dramatic blooms.
Rich and Exotic Look
These lilies have wide, curled petals that come in deep pinks, reds, and whites. Some have a speckled or streaked pattern.
Superb Scent
Their sweet scent is stronger in the evening, making them ideal near patios or windows.
Great for Containers
They grow well in pots, so they’re perfect for balconies and decks too.
A Long Season of Bloom
Oriental lilies bloom longer than most, often up to 4 weeks.
5. Orienpet Lilies: Best of Both Worlds
Orienpet lilies are hybrids of Oriental and Trumpet lilies. They bloom in mid to late summer and combine the best features of both parents.
Strong and Scented
These lilies are strong like trumpet lilies and fragrant like Orientals. They’re perfect for big gardens.
Huge Blooms
Orienpet blooms can be as wide as 10 inches. One popular variety is ‘Silk Road,’ with white petals and red centers.
Heat Tolerant
Unlike pure Orientals, Orienpets can handle heat better, making them great for warmer climates.
Bloom All Summer
Because they bloom later and last long, they help keep your garden colorful into late summer.
6. Tiger Lilies: The Wild Summer Performer
Tiger lilies are old favorites. They bloom in mid to late summer and have a wild, untamed look that many gardeners love.
Eye-Catching Spots
These lilies are orange with black spots, which makes them stand out in any flower bed.
Very Hardy
Tiger lilies are tough. They grow well in many soil types and are drought-tolerant once established.
Naturalize Easily
They spread quickly and will come back year after year. Great for filling large spaces.
Extended Bloom Time
They bloom for up to 4 weeks and attract bees and butterflies too.
7. Martagon Lilies: Early Summer Elegance
Martagon lilies are early bloomers, flowering in late spring and early summer. Their unique, downward-facing blooms give a soft, woodland feel.
Delicate Shape
These lilies have many small flowers with reflexed petals. They grow in clusters and come in soft pinks, purples, and yellows.
Best for Shade
They grow well in partial shade, making them great for woodland gardens.
Tall but Graceful
Martagons can grow up to 5 feet tall. Their slender stems and small blooms give a delicate appearance.
Long-Lasting Flowers
Each plant can have 20 to 50 blooms, which open slowly over several weeks.
8. Canada Lilies: Native Beauty All Summer Long
Canada lilies are native to North America. They bloom in mid-summer and bring a wildflower feel to your garden.
Natural Charm
These lilies have nodding blooms in orange, red, or yellow. Their petals curl backward, showing off their deep colors.
Loved by Wildlife
They attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making your garden feel alive.
Great for Natural Gardens
Canada lilies are perfect for cottage gardens or wildflower beds.
Blooming Through Summer
They bloom in waves over several weeks, extending color into late summer.
How to Keep Lilies Blooming All Summer
You can extend lily bloom time by mixing different types and giving them the care they need.
Plant a Mix of Early, Mid, and Late Bloomers
Start with Asiatic and Martagon lilies for early color. Then add LA hybrids, trumpet lilies, and tiger lilies for mid-season. Finish strong with Oriental and Orienpet lilies.
Deadhead Spent Blooms
Cut off flowers once they fade to help the plant focus on new buds.
Feed Regularly
Use a balanced flower fertilizer in spring and early summer to support strong growth.
Mulch and Water
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Mulch helps retain moisture and control weeds.
Tips for Growing Lilies Successfully
To enjoy lilies all summer, here are some simple care tips:
Sunlight
Most lilies prefer full sun—about 6 hours a day. Martagons are an exception and prefer partial shade.
Soil
Well-draining soil is key. Lilies hate soggy roots. Add compost to improve soil texture.
Depth
Plant bulbs about 6 inches deep. This helps them stay cool and upright.
Staking Tall Varieties
Tall lilies like trumpet and Orienpet may need staking to prevent bending in wind.
Divide Every Few Years
If your lilies stop blooming well, dig and divide the bulbs in fall. This keeps them healthy.
Conclusion
Lilies are one of the most rewarding flowers you can grow. With just a little planning, you can enjoy their beauty all summer long. From the early blooms of Asiatics to the late flowers of Orientals, there’s a lily for every part of the season.
Mix and match these top 8 summer-blooming lilies in your garden. They’ll bring color, fragrance, and joy from late spring to the last warm days of August. Whether you’re growing in a flower bed or a container, these lilies are a simple way to create a stunning summer display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can lilies really bloom all summer long?
Yes, if you choose the right mix of lily types. By planting early, mid, and late-season varieties, you can enjoy continuous blooms from late spring through late summer.
Q2: Will lilies come back every year?
Most lilies are perennial, meaning they return year after year. Just make sure they are planted in a good location with proper care.
Q3: Can I grow lilies in pots?
Yes! Asiatic and Oriental lilies grow well in containers. Just use deep pots and good-quality potting mix. Make sure they get enough sun and water.
