Hemerocallis 'Mighty Chesnut'

Hemerocallis 'Mighty Chestnut': Autumn Tones in Summer Bloom
Warm and earthy with a touch of elegance, Hemerocallis 'Mighty Chestnut' brings rich, chestnut-red blooms to the midsummer garden, each flower glowing with a golden-orange throat that radiates warmth. Its broad, lightly ruffled petals open wide on sturdy, well-branched scapes, creating a bold presence in mixed borders. With strong reblooming tendencies and a palette that evokes the richness of fall, this cultivar adds depth and distinction to summer displays.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 65–75 cm
• Spread: 50–60 cm, forming a well-proportioned, upright clump
• Flower Colour: Chestnut red with a bright golden-orange throat and lightly ruffled petals
• Flowering Period: Midsummer, with reliable rebloom into late summer
• Foliage: Arching, green, grass-like leaves; semi-evergreen
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of a wide range of soils including clay and loam

Uses and Benefits: Mighty Chestnut is perfect for adding warm, saturated colour to sunny borders, late-summer plantings, and pollinator gardens. Its richly toned blooms pair well with ornamental grasses, yellow and orange perennials, and deep purples. Like all daylilies, it's drought-tolerant once established, easy to grow, and highly attractive to bees and butterflies.

Companion Plants: Pair with Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm' for a glowing gold contrast that enhances the daylily’s warm tones. Add Sedum 'Autumn Fire', whose upright form and late-season blooms echo the golden throat and extend interest into fall. Complete the combination with Panicum 'Prairie Fire', whose red-tinged foliage reflects the chestnut hues and adds graceful movement.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for optimal bloom colour and flower production; light shade is tolerated in hotter zones. Water regularly during the first season; once established, it is drought-tolerant. Remove spent blooms for a tidy look and cut back foliage in fall or early spring. Divide clumps every 3–4 years to refresh vigour and maintain flowering performance.

History: Bred by Paul Owen and introduced in the early 21st century, Hemerocallis 'Mighty Chestnut' was selected for its rich, autumn-inspired colouring, excellent bud count, and strong garden performance. It’s become a popular choice for gardeners seeking a deeper-toned daylily with reliable reblooming habits.

Final Thoughts: With its chestnut-red petals and golden heart, Hemerocallis 'Mighty Chestnut' brings a cozy, harvest-inspired warmth to the heart of summer. A strong performer with rich character, it adds depth, texture, and seasonal resonance—perfect for gardeners who crave colour that echoes the glow of autumn long before the leaves begin to turn.