Garden tip: The beauty of Easter lilies

Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum) are so beautiful with their large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance. They are often said to symbolize purity, virtue, innocence, hope and life. They are a symbol of the resurrection to Christians, a symbol of motherhood in Roman mythology and a symbol of springtime and new growth. Enjoy them in your home this Easter.

Easter lilies prefer moderately cool temperatures of 60 to 65 degrees, with slightly cooler night temperatures. The lily will thrive near a window in bright, indirect natural light but avoid direct sunlight. Water the plant thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry, but avoid overwatering.
If you’re looking for a plant not quite so bold and dramatic, you might like to try Zantedeschia.

Zantedeschia has an unusual flower form — a spathe surrounds a central spike — and is smaller and more demure. And they come in colors other than white. You might like one of the hybrids in pink, rose, red, purple or yellow.

— Katie Martin, UC Marin master gardener