Lilium 'Blacklist'

Lilium 'Blacklist': Burgundy So Dark It Looks Black

'Blacklist' is the lily every other flower gossips about but nobody dares to cross. Deep burgundy, almost black blooms with orange anthers on stems that laugh at the wind. IT'S NOT ON THE GUEST LIST. IT IS THE GUEST LIST.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Lilium 'Blacklist' (Asiatic hybrid)
• Common Name: Asiatic Lily
• Height: 60–85 cm (24–34 in)
• Spread: 30 cm (12 in)
• Flowers: Upward-facing, deep burgundy to near-black blooms with orange anthers. Unscented.
• Bloom Time: Early to midsummer (June to July)
• Foliage: Narrow, glossy green leaves along upright stems
• Features: Excellent cut flower, sturdy stems that stand up to wind

Where to Plant: Plant it in groups of three or more through the middle of a sunny border, where the dark flowers pop against lighter neighbours. It also does well in large containers, and low plantings around its base keep the bulbs cool.

Companion Plants: Plant 'Blacklist' in a sunny or part-shade bed with orange geum, white lupines and gold-red heliopsis. Geum TEMPO™ 'Orange' opens orange flowers at 23 to 38 cm from April to June. Lupinus 'Gallery White' adds white lupine spikes at 45 to 60 cm in June and July. Heliopsis 'Burning Hearts' brings gold and red daisies over dark leaves at 90 to 120 cm from July to September. Miscanthus 'Huron Sunrise' rises behind at 150 to 180 cm with red-tinged plumes.

Plant Care: Plant it in full sun to part sun, in loose, well-drained soil. Lily bulbs rot in soggy ground, so on heavy clay plant it in a raised spot or mix in plenty of compost. Water regularly in spring and early summer. Check the leaves often for the bright red lily leaf beetle and its larvae, a common pest across Ontario and Quebec. Pick them off as soon as you see them. Rabbits and deer also enjoy lily shoots, and all parts of lilies are highly toxic to cats. Snap off faded flowers, but leave the stem and leaves standing until they yellow in fall, so the bulb can recharge for next year. Lift and divide crowded clumps every few years in fall.

History: Asiatic lilies are hybrids bred from several lily species native to eastern Asia, and they're among the hardiest and earliest lilies, with upward-facing flowers loved by gardeners and florists. 'Blacklist' is one of the newer selections bred for very dark colour.

Final Thoughts: Cut a few for a moody bouquet and watch your dinner guests lower their voices. VERY EXCLUSIVE. VERY GOTH.