Lilium 'Scheherazade' is a spectacular tall-growing hybrid lily producing large, elegant flowers in a dramatic combination of deep sunset red and creamy white. The rich red colouring dominates the centre of each bloom before fading towards broad pale margins, while gently recurved tepals give the flowers a graceful, almost Turk's-cap-like character.

Flowering during July and reaching approximately 160cm tall, 'Scheherazade' makes an impressive architectural plant for the middle or back of a summer border. Mature bulbs can produce substantial flowering stems carrying numerous blooms, creating an increasingly impressive display as the plant becomes established.

• Botanical name: Lilium 'Scheherazade'
• Common name: Lily 'Scheherazade'
• Plant type: Bulbous perennial
• Flower colour: Deep crimson to sunset red with creamy-white margins
• Flowering time: July
• Height: Approximately 160cm
• Spread: Approximately 30-45cm
• Fragrance: Fragrant
• Position: Full sun or partial shade
• Soil: Fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil
• Ideal for: Mixed borders, large containers and cut flowers

About Lilium 'Scheherazade'

'Scheherazade' is a vigorous hybrid lily with an elegant flower shape influenced by trumpet and recurved lilies. Its impressive blooms are outward to slightly downward facing, with the tepals curling backwards as they mature.

The colouring is particularly distinctive. Deep crimson, burgundy and warm sunset-red tones spread through the centre of each petal, surrounded by a broad creamy-white to pale yellow edge. A greenish throat and dark markings towards the centre add further detail, while long projecting stamens complete the exotic appearance.

A Dramatic Tall Lily for Summer

At approximately 160cm tall, 'Scheherazade' brings valuable vertical structure to summer planting. The sturdy stems rise above lower-growing perennials and carry the flowers where they can be seen clearly from across the garden.

Planting several bulbs together produces the strongest effect. As the bulbs establish, individual stems can become increasingly floriferous and create a substantial display during July.

Where to Plant Lilium 'Scheherazade'

Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with fertile soil containing plenty of organic matter. Lilies appreciate moisture during active growth but require good drainage around the bulbs, particularly during periods of wet weather.

Because 'Scheherazade' is tall, a location sheltered from strong winds is beneficial. It works particularly well towards the middle or back of herbaceous borders, where neighbouring plants can shade the soil around the roots while the flowering stems grow into the light.

How to Plant Scheherazade Lily Bulbs

Plant the bulbs approximately 15cm deep, placing them with the growing point facing upwards. Space bulbs around 20-30cm apart when planting in groups.

Lily bulbs lack the dry protective outer covering found on bulbs such as tulips, so plant them promptly after arrival and avoid allowing them to dry out.

If your soil is heavy, incorporate horticultural grit and organic matter before planting to improve drainage and soil structure.

Growing Lilium 'Scheherazade' in Containers

This lily can also be grown in a large, deep container. Choose a substantial pot capable of supporting stems reaching around 160cm and fill it with fertile, free-draining compost.

Container-grown lilies require regular watering during their rapid spring and summer growth, although the compost should never remain permanently waterlogged.

Height and Spread

Lilium 'Scheherazade' reaches approximately 160cm tall with a spread of around 30-45cm. Well-established bulbs growing in rich soil may produce especially vigorous stems and increasingly large displays.

Fragrant Flowers for Cutting

The combination of large blooms, tall stems and fragrance makes 'Scheherazade' an excellent cut flower. Cut stems when the first flower is beginning to open to maximise their vase life.

Always leave plenty of leaves behind on the plant. The foliage continues to photosynthesise after flowering and replenishes the bulb ready for the following season.

After Flowering

Remove fading flowers if seed is not required, but leave the stems and foliage intact until they naturally turn yellow and die back. The bulbs can then remain undisturbed in the ground over winter where drainage is suitable.

As a perennial lily, 'Scheherazade' should return each year and can become considerably more impressive as the bulbs mature.

Why Grow Lilium 'Scheherazade'?

• Spectacular deep sunset-red flowers
• Beautiful contrasting creamy-white margins
• Elegant recurved tepals
• Fragrant summer flowers
• Flowers during July
• Impressive height of approximately 160cm
• Spread of around 30-45cm
• Excellent architectural plant for tall borders
• Suitable for large containers
• Superb for cutting

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Lilium 'Scheherazade' flower?
It normally flowers during July, providing an impressive display in the middle of summer.

How tall does Lilium 'Scheherazade' grow?
Established plants typically reach approximately 160cm tall.

What is the spread of 'Scheherazade'?
Allow approximately 30-45cm for a mature plant.

What colour are the flowers?
The blooms combine rich crimson to sunset-red centres with broad creamy-white or pale yellowish margins and a contrasting greenish throat.

Is Lilium 'Scheherazade' fragrant?
Yes. The large summer flowers are fragrant, making the variety especially attractive near paths and seating areas as well as for cutting.

Where should I plant 'Scheherazade'?
Plant in full sun or partial shade in fertile, humus-rich soil that retains moisture while draining freely. A sheltered position is helpful for its tall stems.

Can Lilium 'Scheherazade' be grown in pots?
Yes, but its height means it requires a large, deep and heavy container filled with fertile, free-draining compost.

Will Lilium 'Scheherazade' come back every year?
Yes. It is a perennial lily and can remain planted permanently in suitable well-drained soil, usually becoming more impressive as the bulbs establish.

With its towering stems, richly coloured red and cream flowers and elegant recurved form, Lilium 'Scheherazade' is a magnificent choice for adding height, fragrance and strong summer colour to the garden.