How to Identify a Flower With No Leaves: Lily

Examine the root structure if possible. True lilies grow from true bulbs, not rhizomes, tubers or corms, which are commonly called bulbs. Lily bulbs are round and have a pointy top from where the plant grows. They are encased in separate, overlapping scales that are attached together at the bottom of the bulb on the basal plate, where roots may be growing underneath. A lily bulb looks sort of like an artichoke.

Note when the flowers bloom. Grown outdoors, lilies typically bloom from mid to late spring until fall. Early spring flowers are probably not lilies, unless they were grown indoors or in a greenhouse.

Examine the blooms, which are either trumpet, bowl, funnel or bell shaped. The petals could point upward or downward, or they may point outward and curl back at the tips. A typical lily has three petals and three sepals (which all look like petals). The flowers may or may not have a sweet fragrance, and they bloom in most colors except blue.

Examine the six stamens and anthers in the middle of the bloom. The rectangular-shaped anthers on top of the light-colored stamens are considered part of the plant's beauty. Anthers are typically a vibrant yellow, brown or orange and are where the pollen is stored. The pollen also can stain your hands and clothes.

Look at the stems. Lilies grow on top of stiff stems that range in height from approximately 18 inches to 6 feet. Depending on the variety, multiple flowers can grow on the same stem, typically blooming in order from the top of the stem to the bottom.