Lilies & Stephanotis

Lilies have approximately 80 species and hundreds of hybrids in circulation throughout the world, according to Clemson University. Common uses for the stephanotis include floral bouquets and hair accessories for weddings.

Origins

• Lilies are part of the genus Lilium and the family Liliaceae. Lilies are native plants of Asia, Europe and North America. Stephanotis belongs to the family Apocynaceae. Stephanotises are native plants to Madagascar.

Types

• The most popular types of lilies in the United States are Asiatic and Oriental, according to the University of Minnesota. Some common cultivators of Asiatic lilies are dawn star, Connecticut king and Corsica. Typical oriental lilies include Casa Blanca, stargazer and Black Beauty. Types of Stephanotis are Stephanotis floribunda, Stephanotis acuminata and Stephanotis japonica.

Identification

• The lily is an herb with a narrow-leaved stem that develops from a bulb. Each stem forms a large elegant flower with a sweet scent. Lilies come in a wide assortment of colors, including white, cream, crimson, yellow, pink and orange. The height of a lily depends on the type of plant; the common range of growth is between 2 and 8 feet. The Stephanotis is an evergreen perennial vine. This plant ranges from 5 to 15 feet in length. The tiny flowers are five-lobed white, waxy blossoms that are highly aromatic.