In addition to the true lilies, there are a number of other cut flowers that are known as some type of lily.


Fox tail lily

Also known as desert candle, this is one of the best bulbs for cut flowers. The flower stems are very long lasting, up to two weeks or longer. Once the stem is cut, the remaining buds continue to open. This is used as a line flower.

A member of the Lily family, the stems are available commercially mostly during the late spring until fall. In our gardens, they usually bloom during the summer. They come in a mix of colors, including white, cream, pinks, yellows, apricot, and peach. The stems are very tall, up to four feet in height.

These flower stems are in the form of a spike much like that of gayfeather or blazing star.

Foxtail lilies are best for zones five through nine. They prefer full sun, and are resistant to deer.


True Lilies

As a cut flower, the hardy lilies need no introduction. There are many kinds available. For cut flowers, the individual flowers can last for about five days. They are used for bouquets and as form flowers. Depending on the color, some are used for weddings and funerals. Often, the blooms are scented.

Hardy lilies bloom during the summer months. Mostly trumpet shaped, these are sometimes star-like. The flowers come in a wide range of colors. These include reds, white, yellow, pink, and bicolors. Some are speckled. An individual flower can be up to nine inches wide. These open on stems that are three to four feet in height.

The hardiness can vary, depending on the type being grown. However, most are well suited to zones four through nine. They grow either in full sun or partial shade.


Triplet lily

Also known as brodiaea, these are members of the Amaryllis family. These aren’t among the best known bulbs. Yet, they make a great cut flower. They bloom during the summer months.

There are several kinds available. The flowers can look a little different, depending on the one you’re growing. Some of these are native to certain parts of the West.

These grow to almost 1½ feet in height. The delicate, violet-blue blossoms have deep colored veins. These open in clusters. This is recommended for zones five through ten. In colder climates, this can be treated as an annual.

Preferring full sun, these are deer resistant.