OT (Oriental-Trumpet)
If you were looking for a large flowering fragrant Lilium, suited to Australian conditions, Orienpet Liliums could be the one to choose.
These are hybrids between Oriental Lilies and Trumpet Lilies. First bred in America they are known as Orienpet hybrids or ‘OT liliums’.
Generally they are much more heat and dry tolerant than many others.
They can be quite tall growing, with cultivars such as the wonderful yellow flowering ‘Conca d’ Or’ reaching over 2m in ideal conditions.
The long trumpet like flowers have recurved petals come in a wide range of colours from white through to yellow, then pink to red.
Have good disease resistance, and being tolerant of dry soils as well as heat Orienpet Lilies have taken the best characteristics of their parents and are a great addition to the garden.
These are a perfumed lilium coming in a good range of colours. Black beauty is a lilium henryi x speciosum cross, outstanding on 2m stems. Starburst sensation is a wonderful pink flowering variety.
Time to buy – Bulbs are for sale from autumn to winter when dormant
How to Grow Orienpet Lilies – Basic Care
As with most lilies, the warmer the climate the more shade. However in most areas of Australia, Oriepet Liliums will require some shade in the afternoon.
A few very warm days of 30 – 40 C will knock any Lilium about. However good light is still required, in deep shade they will become lanky and start to reach for the light.
- The best time to plant Orienpet Lilies is in early winter in warmer climates. Early spring in colder areas.
- Choose a sunny position
- A humus rich deep soil is best.
- Good drainage is also required.
- Plant these bulbs 15cm deep and try not to disturb for the first 2 – 3 years.
- As clumps develop you will need to divide them to promote strong flowering.
You can top dress in winter with some well rotted compost. We like to water regularly (every 2 weeks) with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
If you are thinking of cutting the flowers, remember to leave plenty of foliage so that the bulbs receive sufficient nourishment for the next season.
Orienpet Liliums are available for sale from the following growers.
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au