Lilium Oriental Trumpet - Robina - 3 bulbs p-pack

Lilium Oriental-Trumpet (OT) 'Robina' is a hybrid lily known for its fragrant, large, deep pink blooms with a white edge. It's a long-lasting, summer-flowering bulb that makes an excellent choice for garden beds, borders, and cut flower arrangements.

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Thrives in cool to temperate regions with moderate summers.

• Best suited for Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

• Tolerates light frost but needs cool winter dormancy to bloom well.

Sunlight:

• Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).

• Afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter climates.

Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, rich, loamy soil with plenty of organic matter.

• pH: 6.0—6.8 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• If soil is heavy, add compost, sand, or perlite for better drainage.

2. Planting Lilium Bulbs

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (April—May) or early spring (August—September) for summer flowering (November—February).

Depth & Spacing:

• Plant 15—20 cm deep and 20—30 cm apart.

• Deeper planting stabilizes tall stems and keeps roots cool.

Container Growing:

• Use large pots (30—40 cm deep) with well-draining potting mix.

• Ensure good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Reduce watering once the plant enters dormancy after flowering.

Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply a slow-release bulb fertilizer (10-10-10 or 5-10-10).

• During growth: Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• After flowering: Apply a potassium-rich fertilizer to strengthen the bulb for next season.

Mulching:

• Apply a 5 cm layer of mulch (compost, bark, or straw) to retain moisture and keep roots cool.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

Bloom Time:

• Blooms in mid to late summer (November—February).

• Produces large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped pink flowers with a white edge.

After Flowering Care:

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage energy storage in the bulb.

• Allow foliage to die back naturally—do not cut it too soon.

• Reduce watering as the plant enters winter dormancy.

Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• In very wet winter regions, lift bulbs after dormancy and store in a cool, dry place until replanting in autumn.

5. Staking & Support

Support Needed:

• Tall plants (up to 1.2—1.5 m) may need staking to prevent bending.

• Use bamboo stakes or plant supports early in the season.

6. Pests & Diseases

Common Pests:

• Aphids & thrips — Can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Lily beetles — Handpick or use organic insecticides.

Disease Issues:

• Botrytis (Grey Mold) — Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation.

• Bulb rot — Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

7. Propagation

By Bulbs (Easiest Method):

• Over time, bulbs produce offsets (small bulbs) that can be divided and replanted in autumn.

By Scales (Advanced Method):

• Large bulbs can be scaled (breaking off scales) and grown in moist compost.

8. Companion Planting

• Pairs well with Freesias, Alliums, Gladiolus, and Hostas.

• Ideal for mixed borders, containers, and cut flower gardens.

Conclusion

Lilium 'Robina' is a spectacular, fragrant summer-flowering lily that thrives in South African gardens with autumn or early spring planting. With full sun, rich well-draining soil, and regular feeding, you'll enjoy tall, stunning blooms every summer!