How to Remove Pollen From Asian Lily Flowers

As exotic and beautiful as Asian lilies are, the yellow pollen contained in their anthers creates a terrible mess that is difficult to remove from surfaces and clothes. The pollen-filled anther is on the tip of the long slender stamens protruding from the center of the lily flower. Removing the anther from the flower will not harm the flower, whether it is growing in your garden or featured as a part of a fresh-cut bouquet. Once removed, you can enjoy your Asian lilies without fear of incurring stains.

Sharp scissors
Soft paintbrush
Cellophane tape
Paper

Instructions

- 1
  Pinch the anther off of the stamen as soon as the lily bud has opened, using your thumb and index finger. Do not remove the stamen from the flower, only the anther at the extreme tip of the stamen. Removing the stamen will decrease the life of the lily flower.
- 2
  Hold a piece of paper under mature Asian lily anthers while snipping off the anthers with a sharp pair of scissors. The paper should catch the cut anther and loose pollen to avoid having the pollen stain petals, fingers or clothes.
- 3
  Brush the yellow pollen gently off flower petals or surfaces with a dry paintbrush. Brushing the pollen off while it is loose and dry will remove all or most of it.

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