Tiger Lily Propagation: Bulbils vs. Seeds and Cold Treatment

Planting Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium) Bulbils

The “seeds” in leaf axils are actually bulbils (tiny clones). They need a brief cold period.

Method

1. Place bulbils in damp paper towel; seal in bag.
2. Refrigerate 30 days.
3. Plant 1 inch deep in pots.
4. Roots emerge first; leaves follow in a few months.
5. Start indoors late December for April planting.
6. Multiple bulbils per pot OK; separate later.

Notes

• True lily seeds (in pods) are black, hard, and also need cold stratification.
• Some lilies have hypogeal germination (root first, leaf next year).
• Bloom in year 2+.

Bulbils are the easiest way to increase tiger lilies.