Turk's cap lily

The Martagon or Turk's Cap lily is a classic of the English woodland garden. This elegant species produces tall, stately racemes bearing up to 50 small, pendulous flowers with strongly recurved petals in various shades of pinkish-purple with dark spots. One of the few lilies that actually prefers a bit of shade, it is ideal for planting under the canopy of deciduous trees or in a north-facing border. It is extremely hardy (H7) and long-lived once established, though it is notoriously slow to settle and may take a year or two to flower after planting. It prefers alkaline to neutral soil that is rich in leaf mould and well-drained. Unlike many modern hybrids, Martagons have a very natural, delicate look that integrates well into wilder garden areas. Their scent is relatively heavy and best enjoyed in the open air of a woodland glade.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Humus-rich, alkaline to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.