Wood Lily
Scientific name: Lilium philadelphicum
This native lily has flowers ranging from orange to red and even yellow that bloom June through August. Unfortunately, deer have decimated the population of this flower, causing its near extinction in Westchester.
Leaves
The blade of the leaf is
- elliptic (widest near the middle, tapering at the ends)
- linear (very narrow)
- oblanceolate (lance shaped with the widest point above the middle of the leaf blade
Fun Facts
It is pollinated by Tiger Swallowtail butterflies, in particular!
Habitat
Most often found in woodlands edges, hilltops, roadsides and utility rights-of-way in poor soils.
Similar Species
There are a few lilies which are native to New York. See the Canadian Lily photo below, as well as that of the very common, invasive Tiger Lily. The Tiger Lily originated in Asia and escaped into the wild.
Ecosystem Connections
Unfortunately, deer do eat these.
Human Connections
If you have a protected area, consider planting this native. Maybe over time it will return to our forests, if the deer population gets under control.
Canadian Lily
Invasive Tiger Lily
More on Flowers and Grasses in Lewisboro