Turk’s-cap Lily (Lilium martagon) - Wildlife-Friendly, Historic Woodland Favourite (Peat-Free, Pesticide-Free Bulbs)

Lilium martagon is the classic Turk’s-cap lily - its swept-back petals and spotted tepals give the distinctive “turban” look that has charmed gardeners since medieval times. In naturalistic gardens it’s wonderful among ferns, violets, primroses and Solomon’s Seal, bringing vertical elegance and a lightly sweet fragrance through early summer.

Wildlife truth: While lilies aren’t top-tier nectar plants, Turk’s-cap flowers are visited by bumblebees and night-fliers (moths), offering honest forage in sheltered, dappled places. Leave the seedheads standing if you like a wilder look; the plant is long-lived where soil suits and it’s left undisturbed.

Planting & care:

• Position: Light/part shade; ideal for woodland edge or east/north beds.

• Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained; neutral to alkaline/chalk-friendly. Work in leaf-mould/composted bark.

• Depth/spacing: Plant bulbs 3× their height deep (about 12-15 cm) and 25-30 cm apart.

• Aftercare: Keep evenly moist in spring; mulch annually with leaf-mould. Avoid disturbing clumps; they naturalise slowly. If you dislike pollen stains, pinch off anthers as flowers open.

Folklore & heritage:
Named for the curved “Turk’s cap” shape of its flowers, this species symbolised grace and constancy in old herbals and has been prized across European woodland gardens for centuries. The elegant white form (var. album) was especially favoured in historic borders.

Joel says…
“For shady borders that need a bit of theatre, Turk’s-cap Lily is spot on. It looks natural among ferns and woodland plants, and insects do visit those reflexed bells. Plant it deep, keep it mulched, and don’t fuss - it’ll reward you for years. As always, peat-free and ready to thrive.”

Safety / IMPORTANT note:
Lilies are extremely toxic to cats - any ingestion (including pollen on fur) can be dangerous. Grow away from cats, remove spent blooms/anthers, and never use vase water on or near edible crops. Also toxic if eaten by pets/livestock.