Daylilies are one of the easiest to grow garden perennials. They survive under a wide range of conditions, are practically trouble-free, and can remain undisturbed for many years. Botanically, daylilies are called Hemerocallis, derived from the Greek word meaning “beautiful for a day.” The name is somewhat misleading; even though individual flowers last only for a single day, new buds open daily,and the stalks bear flowers for several weeks.
Daylilies can be used as specimens or planted in large masses. Tall varieties make good background plantings behind lower growing annuals and perennials. Shorter cultivars work well in front of taller shrubbery or fences. Low growing varieties can be used as edgers along walks or as foreground plantings. Daylilies also can be effectively used on slopes where their vigorous root systems help hold the soil and reduce erosion. If space is limited, low growing and miniature varieties can be used in containers.
Janice Brown