A lilium that will thrive in shade Martagon Lilies grow naturally in cold climates. Only a few species are recognised.
- Lilium martagon var. martagon – from Portugal to Mongolia
Flowers vary in colour from pink-purple. With such a wide natural distribution actual colour is highly variable,from the near white to near black. Look for the pure white variety known as Lilium martagon var. album.
Lilium martagon subsp. cattanie, very deep red flowers.
Lilium martagon subsp. daugavense is another with deep red flowers although varied. - Lilium martagon var. pilosiusculum – Found mainly from Russia, Kazakhstan, Xinjiang to Mongolia. Flowers are pink to purple-pink, often with deep maroon spots. Actual colour will be lighter or darker depending on where the place is from as well growing conditions.
How to Grow Martagon Lilies Successfully
Growing Martagon Lilies is rewarding, but they do have specific needs—especially regarding light and soil. Meeting these conditions will ensure strong growth and reliable flowering year after year.
Light Requirements for Martagon Lilies
The ideal amount of sunlight depends largely on your climate zone:
- Warm climates: Provide more dappled shade to keep bulbs cool.
- Cool climates: Allow for more direct sun, especially in the morning.
Aim for about 6 hours of morning sun followed by afternoon shade. A classic choice is planting these lilies beneath a deciduous tree, where they receive early light in spring before the canopy fills out.
This makes them ideal for anyone searching for lilies for shade gardens.
Soil & Drainage Needs
Proper soil conditions are key to growing Lilium martagon. These bulbs dislike sitting in cold, wet soil, especially over winter.
Drainage Tips for Martagon Lily Bulbs
- Add grit or coarse drainage material to your soil.
- Plant on a gentle slope to help water run off.
- Consider raised garden beds if your soil tends to stay wet.
The best soil for Martagon Lilies is a well-drained, humus-rich loam—perfect for mimicking their natural woodland habitat.
Planting Depth for Martagon Lily Bulbs
A reliable rule is to plant Martagon Lily bulbs at about 15 cm (6 inches) deep. This depth:
- Protects bulbs from frost
- Helps prevent freezing damage
- Reduces moisture loss during summer
- Encourages stable, long-term growth
We Are Asked
Do Martagon Lilies grow well in shade?
Yes, Martagon Lilies are one of the best shade-loving lilies you can grow. They thrive in dappled shade, light woodland conditions, and areas with morning sun followed by afternoon shade.
What is the best soil for Martagon Lilies?
The ideal soil is a well-drained, humus-rich loam. Good drainage is essential, especially during winter, to prevent bulb rot. Adding grit or planting on a slope can greatly improve drainage.
How deep should I plant Martagon Lily bulbs?
Plant bulbs about 15 cm (6 inches) deep. This planting depth protects them from frost, freezing temperatures, and summer dehydration.
What colours do Martagon Lilies come in?
Depending on the variety, flowers range from near-white to deep purple or near-black. Popular forms include the pure white Lilium martagon var. album and the spotted pink-purple Lilium martagon var. pilosiusculum. Also many Martagon Lilies are hybrids. OR Martagon hybrids (Division II Lilium Hybrids) so Hybrids between Lilium dalhansonii, Lilium hansonii, Lilium martagon, Lilium medeoloides, and Lilium tsingtauense.
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A Little Extra
What Are Martagon Lily Hybrids
(Division II Lilium Hybrids) so Hybrids between Lilium dalhansonii, Lilium hansonii, Lilium martagon, Lilium medeoloides, and Lilium tsingtauense.
The first recorded Martagon lily hybrid “Marhan” was bred by Cornelis Gerrit van Tubergen (1844-1919).
This was a hybrid between Lilium martagon and Lilium hansonii. So it showcases L. martagon‘s classic nodding, turk’s cap flowers and hardiness with L. hansonii‘s yellow-orange flowers and other desirable traits.
C.G van Tubergen also produced “Miss Willmott” a narcissus hybrid still found today and many other hybrid bulbs.