Red Velvet Asiatic Lily Bulbs

Light Needs

Part Sun to Full Sun

(5+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

6-9 Inches

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Red Velvet Asiatic Lily Bulbs send up deep crimson flowers in early summer with a richness few lilies can match. Lilium 'Red Velvet' produces recurved, downward-facing blooms on sturdy stems that typically reach 36 inches, with taller growth possible in settled plantings. The dark red petals and speckled centers draw hummingbirds and give cutting gardens a dramatic color note before many late-summer flowers begin. We find it especially effective planted in small groups, where just a few bulbs create a strong vertical accent.

This classic Asiatic lily has been grown for decades because it returns dependably and often increases over time. Unlike Oriental lilies, Asiatic lilies are not grown for heavy fragrance, so Red Velvet is a better fit where color is preferred over perfume. The blooms appear in early to mid-summer and work well in borders, cutting beds, and sunny mixed plantings. Use it among lower perennials that keep the soil shaded while the lily stems rise cleanly above them.

Red Velvet Asiatic Lily Bulbs Care

Plant Red Velvet Asiatic Lily Bulbs in full sun to partial shade, giving them at least 6 hours of sun for strong stems and good flowering. Grow them in fertile, well-drained soil that stays moderately moist without becoming wet. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, about 6.0 to 7.0, suits most Asiatic lilies.

Water after planting to settle soil around the bulbs. During the growing season, water during dry spells while shoots, buds, and flowers are active. Established clumps should not sit in soggy soil, but they do perform better when the root zone does not dry hard during bud development. Feed in spring as shoots emerge with a balanced slow-release fertilizer, following the label rate. Mulch lightly to keep the soil cooler, and keep true lilies away from cats.

Remove spent flowers after the petals drop, cutting just below the bloom cluster. Leave the stems and leaves until they yellow in fall, since that foliage feeds next year’s bulbs. Taller stems may need discreet staking in windy sites or in part shade, where plants can stretch more.

Red Velvet Asiatic Lily Bulbs Spacing

Plant Red Velvet Asiatic Lily Bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep and 6 to 9 inches apart, with the pointed end facing up. In containers, use a pot at least 12 to 14 inches wide with drainage holes and enough soil beneath the bulbs for root growth. Container lilies can bloom well their first season, then are best moved into the garden for stronger perennial performance.

For container companions, use African daisy, cuphea, or alyssum around the lower edge, since they handle sun and keep attention near the pot while the lilies rise above. In garden beds, black-eyed Susans and beardtongue pair well with the bold red flowers and share full-sun, well-drained conditions. Bee balm is a good nearby pollinator companion where soil stays evenly moist, and allium adds a contrasting flower shape before the lily bloom begins.

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