No products in the cart.
As ornamental plants go, lilies are among the most popular, thanks to exotic, showy blooms and distinctive fragrances. With over 2,000 varieties to choose from and species native to different areas of the globe, it’s easy to find one or several favorites to grace your home or present as a thoughtful bouquet to that special someone.
When you start perusing lilies, you may come across both Oriental and Asiatic varieties and wonder what the difference is. Each category has unique qualities that could pull you toward one or the other. What can you expect with Oriental lily vs. Asiatic lily varieties, and which is right for your needs and preferences?
Flower Origins
As the name implies, Asiatic lilies are native to the Asian continent. They are found in several countries with a range of varieties and hybrids to choose from.
Oriental lilies also originate in Asia, but only in a specific region. These hybrids are derived from just a few species native to Japan.
Coloration
Lilies come in an array of beautiful colors, but Asiatic and Oriental varieties differ in key ways. Asiatic lilies are renowned for their vibrant hues, with saturated tones ranging from bright yellows and oranges to luscious red and salmon hues to deep, plummy purples.
Oriental lilies can also be colorful, but the shades tend to be softer and more muted. Some of the most popular varieties feature a pure white palette with hints of blush and citron, although colors can veer into richer gold, peach, fuchsia, and burgundy tones.
Fragrance
One of the most notable differences when considering Oriental lily vs. Asiatic lily species is that one category features strong, distinctive fragrances. Although Oriental lilies aren’t quite as showy, they make up for it with abundant fragrance.
Stargazer lilies, a popular variety of pastel-to-hot pink bloom, emit a sweet, heady scent with hints of citrusy, clove-like spice. Aromatic varieties can have very strong scents, especially as the blooms fully open.
Asiatic lilies, on the other hand, are unscented, making them a better choice for those with allergies or fragrance sensitivities.
Differences in Blooms
Both Asiatic and Oriental lilies have the telltale, star-shaped blooms this species is known for, with long, pointed petals, but they are distinctive. Asiatic lilies typically grow to a height of 2-3 feet and tend to serve up smaller but more numerous blooms that grow upward from the stem. You may also encounter striking, double-petal varieties.
Oriental lilies have fewer blooms per stem, but they’re large and elegant, growing horizontally out from stems like fireworks exploding in the sky.
Blooms can grow as large as about 10 inches in diameter, with stems ranging from about two feet high to as tall as eight feet, making them a showstopping addition to arrangements for home display, hotel lobbies, and swanky soirées.
Showing Season
Asiatic lilies are early bloomers, blossoming through spring and into early summer to bring a hefty dose of color to gardens and summer bouquets. These varieties are hardy and tend to multiply quickly, potentially doubling production within a single growing season.
Oriental lilies are late bloomers, showing up in mid-to-late summer and offering options for gorgeous bouquets when Asiatic lilies are on the way out.
Which Blooms Are Right for You?
If you love the exotic appeal of lilies, there are almost endless options to explore, including hundreds of Asiatic and Oriental varieties.
When it comes to choosing Oriental lily vs. Asiatic lily specimens, you’ll want to consider variables like size, coloration, and fragrance, particularly if you plan to give a bouquet to a partner or friend. With so many beautiful blooms to consider, it’s easy to find the perfect lilies for yourself or a loved one.
Family owned and operated since 1982, we are proud to provide great service, beautiful floral arrangements, same day flower delivery, and affordable pricing to our fantastic customers in and around Austin, TX!
Our professional but fun and easy-going staff will take your order and have it delivered in a timely manner. We offer contemporary & traditional flower arrangements for all holidays and occasions, including birthdays, get well flowers, new baby, sympathy & funeral, just because, and more.
Delivery available 6 days a week. Place your order online or call us today at (512) 447-3577.
