'Lilium Nanum'
(Purple Form)
Nanum, meaning dwarf, is a very small alpine lily growing only 6 to 12 inches
(10 to 30 cms) tall in nature. Lilium nanum is found distributed through the Himalayas especially in the Dequin and Gongshan areas of the Yunnan. Title photo was taken in Bhutan. Taxonomists classified this lilium species as a 'nomocharis' for many years. The bell-shaped pink-to-lilac flowers have purple spots. Found in cultivation for over 100 years, bulbs are rarely seen available.
In nature Lilium nanum is found found grassy mountain slopes, growing on cliffs, and in the Sequoia margins where it flowers in June with seed ripening in September. Seed germination is immediate epigeal. It highly dislikes being moved and is best started from seed planted where they can just be left alone. Often takes 5 or more years to flower and then dies for no apparent reason other than to frustrate the grower.
Title Photo and photo insert #1 contributed by Harry Jans of The Netherlands showing Lilium namum purple form in its natural setting in as found in Tibet. Many more magnificent photographic images from Mr. Jans taken from around the world can be found at www.jansalpines.com. Copyright Harry Jans, Jansaplines, all rights reserved. Used with permission.
Photo insert #2 copyright Mr. Sonam Wangche of Buthan Excursions of the purple form Lilium nanuml found in his native Bhutan. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
Photo inset #3 taken by tour client of Sonam Wangchen in habitat area of Lilium nanum purple form. Copyright Sonam Wangchen, all rights reserved. Used with permission.
In nature Lilium nanum is found found grassy mountain slopes, growing on cliffs, and in the Sequoia margins where it flowers in June with seed ripening in September. Seed germination is immediate epigeal. It highly dislikes being moved and is best started from seed planted where they can just be left alone. Often takes 5 or more years to flower and then dies for no apparent reason other than to frustrate the grower.
Title Photo and photo insert #1 contributed by Harry Jans of The Netherlands showing Lilium namum purple form in its natural setting in as found in Tibet. Many more magnificent photographic images from Mr. Jans taken from around the world can be found at www.jansalpines.com. Copyright Harry Jans, Jansaplines, all rights reserved. Used with permission.
Photo insert #2 copyright Mr. Sonam Wangche of Buthan Excursions of the purple form Lilium nanuml found in his native Bhutan. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
Photo inset #3 taken by tour client of Sonam Wangchen in habitat area of Lilium nanum purple form. Copyright Sonam Wangchen, all rights reserved. Used with permission.
