Hemerocallis fulva Seeds | Tawny Daylily
LATIN NAME: Hemerocallis fulva
COMMON NAME: Tawny Daylily
Plant Profile
Hemerocallis fulva, better known as Tawny Daylily, is an easy perennial. Tall, arching stems carry a succession of large, trumpet-shaped, tawny-orange flowers, each one opening for a single day before next takes its place. Dense clumps of arching, strap-like leaves give plant a fine, bold presence through season, and it grows on steadily for years without any fuss. It is one of toughest and the most rewarding of the easy perennials. It is hard to name another plant that gives this much for this little trouble.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the Hemerocallis group, Hemerocallis fulva draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Daylily has a strong place in horticultural science, and breeders have produced thousands of named varieties from hardy species. With present-day seed handling, raising this species well within the reach of any careful grower.
Uses & Benefits
Tawny Daylily works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Tawny daylily is grown for looks and for the table. Dense clumps make a fine, bold edging and a tough, easy ground cover, and succession of orange flowers keeps border bright for weeks. Flower buds have a long traditional use as a vegetable in kitchens of east, where they are gathered and cooked, and plant is also used in traditional preparations. Beyond the establishment year, its needs are simple and few.
Daylily buds, Jin Zhen or golden needles, are a classic East Asian dried vegetable for soups, and the genus has folk records as a calming herb; note that some types can upset digestion when eaten raw, so enjoy them cooked as tradition does.
Growing from Seed
Starting Tawny Daylily from seed is simple and satisfying. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in bright light. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
It forms an easy perennial, which makes spacing and siting straightforward. Given the right start, Tawny Daylily is a long-term garden companion. In a sunny, freely drained position it needs little looking after.
Related Reading
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