Daylily
Hemerocallis spp.
Over 90,000 registered cultivars make daylily the most-hybridized perennial in the world — and every part of the plant is edible (long a staple in Chinese cuisine).
How to care for daylily
Each bloom lasts exactly one day (hence the name) — deadhead spent flowers daily for a tidy appearance. Divide every 3-5 years in early spring when clumps decline in flower production.
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Place it in repeatable drifts through borders so the color and texture carry the eye instead of appearing as a one-off plant.
Pair it with
Echinacea, Black-eyed susan, Russian sage make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with full sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 3-9 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 1-4 ft tall and wide.
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Daylily grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Where it grows best
Native to Eastern Asia; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Frequently asked about daylily
What USDA zones does Daylily grow in?+
Daylily is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Daylily need?+
Daylily prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.
How often should I water Daylily?+
Daylily has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Each bloom lasts exactly one day (hence the name) — deadhead spent flowers daily for a tidy appearance. Divide every 3-5 years in early spring when clumps decline in flower production.
How big does Daylily get?+
Daylily reaches a mature size of 1-4 ft tall and wide. Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Daylily?+
Daylily pairs well with Echinacea, Black-eyed susan, Russian sage, Coreopsis, Salvia. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Daylily?+
Common Daylily problems include daylily rust; aphids; thrips. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
When does Daylily bloom?+
Daylily blooms in summer in every color except blue. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.
More plants to design with
Pair well with daylily or suit the same spot.
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial
Perennial