Lilium lancifolium is a species of lily that is native to Japan, China, and Korea. The spelling of this word is straightforward when you understand the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced /ˈlɪliəm/ (LIL-ee-əm), with the stress on the first syllable. The second word, lancifolium, is pronounced /lænsɪˈfoʊliəm/ (lan-si-FOH-lee-əm), with the stress on the third syllable. The word lancifolium means "lance-shaped leaves," which describes the plant's foliage.
Lilium lancifolium, commonly known as Tiger Lily or Lilium tigrinum, is an ornamental perennial plant species belonging to the lily family, Liliaceae. This species is native to parts of Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea.
The Tiger Lily is characterized by its tall, erect stem that can reach heights of up to 1.5 meters. Its lance-shaped leaves are typically arranged in a whorl along the stem. The striking show-stopping feature of this plant is its vibrant orange or reddish-orange flowers, which consist of six petals with darker speckles or spots, resembling spots found on tigers, hence the common name "Tiger Lily." These flowers are generally comprised of six stamens and a single pistil, surrounded by showy stigmas at the center. Tiger Lilies bloom during the summer months, bringing a splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
As an ornamental plant, Lilium lancifolium is favored in flower arrangements, border plantings, and garden displays due to its impressive appearance and vibrant coloration. Since it is a hardy species, it can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions, including moderate sunlight and well-drained soils. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Tiger Lilies also attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, contributing to the biodiversity of ecosystems.
Despite their beauty, caution should be exercised around Tiger Lilies, as they are considered toxic to certain animals, such as cats. Therefore, proper care and handling are essential when growing or having this plant in proximity to pets.
The word "Lilium" originates from the Latin term for "lily". It is derived from the Greek word "leiron" or "lirion", which also means "lily".
The term "Lancifolium" is a combination of two Latin words: "lancea", meaning "spear", and "folium", meaning "leaf". This specific epithet refers to the lance-shaped leaves of the Lilium lancifolium plant.