Hemerocallis 'Bela Lugosi'

Hemerocallis 'Bela Lugosi': A Gothic Star with Regal Colour
Dark and dramatic, Hemerocallis 'Bela Lugosi' commands attention in the summer garden with rich, velvety purple blooms and a bold, chartreuse throat that glows in contrast. One of the finest dark-flowered daylilies available, this midseason bloomer combines intense colour saturation with exceptional performance—each broad, ruffled bloom opening fully even in hot weather. Named after the legendary actor of Dracula fame, it brings theatrical flair and timeless elegance to perennial borders.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 70–80 cm
• Spread: 50–60 cm, forming a robust, upright clump
• Flower Colour: Deep royal purple with a lime-green throat; broad, lightly ruffled petals
• Flowering Period: Midsummer (July), with some sporadic rebloom
• Foliage: Arching, strappy green leaves; deciduous
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to light shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of a variety of soil types including clay and loam

Uses and Benefits: Bela Lugosi is a bold statement plant for the middle of the border, where its richly coloured blooms create striking contrast with both bright and pale companions. Its flowers remain vibrant even in intense sunlight, and its sturdy stems and reliable habit make it a favourite among collectors and designers alike. Ideal for moon gardens, dramatic colour schemes, or as a focal point in mixed perennial beds, this cultivar is also drought-tolerant and deer-resistant once established.

Companion Plants: Pair Bela Lugosi with Achillea 'Moonshine', whose citron-yellow blooms and ferny foliage provide a vivid, sunny contrast to the daylily’s moody purple. Add Salvia 'Bumblesnow' to cool the palette and echo the lime throat with crisp white spires. Finish with Panicum 'Heavy Metal', whose upright, blue-green blades add vertical form and late-season texture, completing a bold and balanced composition.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for best flowering and colour intensity, though light afternoon shade is tolerated. Water during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first growing season. Remove spent blooms to maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back foliage in late fall. Divide every 4–5 years to maintain vigour and flower production.

History: Introduced in 1995 by Florida hybridizer Curt Hanson, Hemerocallis 'Bela Lugosi' quickly became a modern classic, known for its unmatched depth of colour and strong garden performance. It has since been awarded the Stout Silver Medal—the highest honour in the daylily world—confirming its place as one of the all-time greats.

Final Thoughts: With its velvet petals and gothic allure, Hemerocallis 'Bela Lugosi' delivers drama, elegance, and reliability in equal measure. A true showstopper that lives up to its cinematic namesake, it brings theatrical beauty and late-season presence to the sunlit garden. Perfect for those who love their flowers with a little mystery.