Lilies

Zantedeschia Mixed brings a lively mix of calla lilies in bright, contrasting colours on tall stems above neat, arrow‑shaped leaves. Expect a varied palette, so every planting feels a little different. The flowers are actually a smooth ‘spathe’ wrapped around a central spadix, giving that iconic trumpet shape that suits both classic and contemporary gardens.

These summer-flowering rhizomes are outstanding in patio pots, where you can keep the compost evenly moist and enjoy the flowers up close. They also work in sheltered borders, especially in richer soils, and the clean, architectural blooms pair beautifully with grasses and airy annuals.

Plant in spring once the ground has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Set rhizomes 5–10 cm deep, with the growing points facing up, and space them so the clumps can expand. You’ll usually see shoots appear within a few weeks, followed by flower stems through mid to late summer.

Calla lilies love moisture while they’re growing, so water regularly and feed in containers for the best display. Mulching the soil surface helps reduce drying out in warm weather. If you’re cutting stems, pick as the spathe unfurls and place straight into fresh water for long-lasting arrangements.

These are tender plants in the UK, so protect them from frost. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the rhizome can recharge. In autumn, lift and store the rhizomes somewhere cool, dry and frost‑free, or move pots under cover, ready for replanting next spring.

Lilium 'Oriental Mixed' brings a fragrant mix of oriental lilies in a range of colours to summer borders and patio pots, with bold, outward-facing blooms that make a striking feature. The flowers are long-lasting and eye-catching, adding instant impact to planting schemes and bouquets alike.

Reaching an established height of around 90–120 cm, these lilies form sturdy stems and glossy green foliage, with multiple buds per stem. They flower reliably in mid to late summer and return each year in the right conditions.

Plant bulbs in spring or autumn in a sunny or lightly shaded position with well-drained, fertile soil. Work in compost and avoid waterlogged sites; lilies prefer moisture during growth but hate sitting in winter wet.

Water during dry spells while shoots develop and as buds form, then reduce once flowering finishes. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring and again as buds appear, and remove spent flowers while leaving stems and leaves to die back naturally.

Ideal for borders, containers and cutting gardens, lilies create a dramatic vertical accent and pair beautifully with perennials and grasses. Established clumps can be lifted and divided every few years if needed.

Lilium 'Manitoba Morning' is a graceful martagon lily with soft coral-pink flowers, lightly speckled and carried in airy clusters on tall stems that bring height and movement to early summer planting.

It is especially well suited to naturalistic borders and lightly shaded gardens, where its reflexed flowers and whorled foliage create a more relaxed, woodland feel than many other garden lilies.

Plant bulbs in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, taking care not to let the bulbs sit in winter wet. Once settled, martagon lilies dislike disturbance and often improve year after year.

Water during prolonged dry weather while in growth, and leave stems to fade naturally after flowering so the bulbs can store energy for the next season.