Apricot Fudge Lily

‘Apricot Fudge’ Lily – Care Guide

Overview

The ‘Apricot Fudge’ Lily (Lilium ‘Apricot Fudge’) is an unusual Asiatic hybrid lily with peony-like, double flowers in warm apricot-orange tones. Unlike traditional lilies, it lacks prominent stamens, giving it a cleaner look and making it especially desirable for floral arrangements. It's compact, unique, and ideal for containers or front-of-border plantings.

Key Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Lilium ‘Apricot Fudge’
• Common Name: Apricot Fudge Lily
• Plant Type: Bulbous Perennial
• Hardiness Zones: 3–8
• Height: 24–30 inches (60–75 cm)
• Spread: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm)
• Bloom Time: Mid to late summer (usually July in Zone 3)
• Flower Color: Warm apricot-orange with hints of copper or salmon
• Fragrance: Light to none
• Foliage: Narrow, glossy green leaves in whorled arrangements on upright stems

Sun Requirements

• Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day)
• Tolerates light shade, especially in hotter climates

Soil Needs

• Needs well-drained, fertile soil
• Avoid heavy clay or soggy spots — bulbs will rot
• Add compost or organic matter before planting
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Watering Needs

• Keep soil evenly moist but not wet during the growing season
• Reduce watering once foliage starts to yellow after blooming
• Water at the base to avoid fungal issues

Planting & Spacing

• Plant bulbs in spring after frost danger or in fall before the ground freezes
• Depth: 6 inches (15 cm) deep
• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart
• For Zone 3: Apply a winter mulch (straw or leaves) after the ground freezes to protect from temperature swings

Maintenance

• Low-maintenance
• Deadhead spent blooms to keep plants tidy
• Do not cut back foliage until it yellows and dies down naturally — it's storing energy for next year’s blooms
• Stake if grown in windy spots or with companion plants that lean

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring as growth begins
• Avoid high-nitrogen formulas, which can encourage floppy stems and fewer blooms

Pests & Diseases

• Watch for:
  • Red lily beetles (hand-pick or treat with neem oil/insecticidal soap)
  • Aphids
  • Botrytis blight (fungal spotting on leaves/stems)
• Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering

Wildlife & Companion Benefits

• Attracts butterflies
• Not fragrant, so less appealing to pollinators than other lilies
• Rabbits and deer may nibble — protect if needed
• Great companions:
  • Ornamental grasses
  • Salvia
  • Catmint
  • Daylilies
  • Coreopsis

Garden Uses

• Containers and pots
• Front of perennial beds
• Mixed borders
• Formal or modern garden designs
• Cut flower gardens (excellent vase life and no messy pollen!)

Special Notes

• Its double, peony-like form and lack of visible stamens make it an excellent choice for weddings and cut floral arrangements
• Blooms are long-lasting and weather-resistant

Photo credit: growingcolors.com