Sun and Shade Lilies

Sun Lilies

• Oriental lilies and their varieties are well adapted to growing in the sun, as cited by the North Carolina State University Extension. The fragrant flowers bloom during the summer in shades of white, crimson and pink and with darker color markings on the petals. The plants grow 3 to 6 feet tall. Cultivars include Black Beauty, Journey's End, Casa Blanca and Stargazer.

Shade Lilies

• The Iowa State University Extension lists Turk's cap lilies as among the shade tolerant lilies. The flowers bloom in shades of pink, yellow, yellow-orange and white and have spotted petals. The plants grow 4 to 7 feet tall. Varieties of Turk's cap lilies include Album, Marhan, Shantung and Early Bird.

Cultural Conditions

• Lilies grow best in a well-drained, fertile and acidic soil with an ideal soil pH of 6.5. Plant the bulbs during fall at a 6- to 8-inch depth. The flowers also grow well in containers. Avoid soggy and poorly drained soils. If you are planting the bulbs in a clay or heavy soil, plant at a lesser depth.