Orienpet lilies for fragrance, scale and strong garden growth
Orienpet lilies
Orienpet lilies
Orienpet lilies, also known as OT hybrids, bring together characteristics of Oriental and Trumpet lilies. Their flowers combine substantial size and fragrance with strong stems and vigorous growth, while the colour range extends through white, cream, yellow, pink, red and numerous blended shades. The result is a group that feels substantial in the border without losing the recognisable refinement of Lilium flowers.
Their hybrid background also gives Orienpet lily bulbs considerable versatility. They perform well in fertile, well-drained soil and are generally less demanding about acidity than pure Oriental lilies. Give them sun or light partial shade, regular moisture while actively growing and enough space for the stems to rise through surrounding planting. Mature plants can become tall, so shelter from strong winds is useful in exposed UK gardens.
Orienpet lilies are closely related to the lilies often sold as tree lilies, but the OT group covers a wider range of heights and habits. Use taller varieties towards the back of a border, choose more moderate forms where you want the flowers closer to eye level or plant several bulbs together where their fragrance can gather through late summer. Once settled, they can remain in the ground and become more established from season to season.