Colorful, enchanting, and fragrant, lilies grow in many different shapes, sizes, and colors making them one of the most popular flowers in the world. These magical blooms are full of surprises, though, with more than 90 different species. We break it down for you and listing the 9 divisions of lilies showcasing some of the most impressive varieties. 

Basic Lily Facts

“True Lilies” belong to a diverse group of plants in the genus Lilium. All true lilies have six petals and six anthers (oval sack containing the pollen). Usually, lilies are tall, upright plants with flowers in the shape of trumpets or bells. They grow come in a vast range of colors and many sport variegated patterns, spots, or dark patches which lends to their continuous diversity and appeal. Many people love lilies due to their amazingly sweet fragrance, but only a few varieties actually have a scent. 

Lily Symbolism

In general, lilies have come to embody purity, royalty, fertility, beauty, grace, and rebirth. For color-specific symbolism, they typically follow the below: 

• White Lilies signify purity, innocence, modesty, and grace.
• Yellow Lilies signify happiness, good health, gratitude, and healing.  
• Light Pink Lilies signify elegance, femininity,  and generosity.
• Dark Pink Lilies signify prosperity, abundance, and ambition. 
• Red Lilies signify passion, desire, and romance.
• Orange Lilies signify confidence, encouragement, and wealth.

Lily Classifications & Examples

Pink Pixie Lilies

Division 1: Asiatic Hybrid – Colorful and long-lasting. No scent.  (Tango, Forever Susan, Orange Pixie Lily, Elodie Lily, Lollipop, Tango, Forever Susan)

Turk’s Cap Lily

Division 2: Martagon Hybrid – Colorful and dramatic, dainty downward-facing blooms. (Turk’s Cap)

Madonna Lily

Division 3: Candidum Hybrid – Large blooms with a lovely scent. (Madonna Lily)

Tiger Lily

Division 4: American Hybrid – Hybrids of N. American wild lilies. (Tiger Lily)

Easter Lilies

Division 5: Longiflorum Hybrid – Trumpet-shaped, elegant, fragrant. Bloom during Easter. (Easter Lily)

African Queen Lily

Division 6: Trumpet and Aurelian Hybrids – Tall, large, and lush with a sweet fragrance. (African Queen)

Stargazer Lily

Division 7: Oriental Hybrid – Large, upright blooms with an enchanting fragrance.  (Stargazer, Acapulco Lily, Casablanca)

Orange LA Hybrid Lily

Division 8: Interdivisional Hybrids Includes hybrids of the previous seven divisions.

Wild Yellow and Red Lily

Division 9: Species –  Wild ancestors to all the previous classes.

SUMMER DAZE

The lily is prominent in history and in today’s cultures because of its beauty, grace, vibrancy, and amazing aroma. Considered a pure flower, it’s no wonder the lily is frequently seen in wedding ceremonies and other prestigious events. It also adds a wonderful touch of elegance to any home. Curran’s Flowers has a great selection of floral arrangements with lilies and other gorgeous blooms…. peruse our selection now!