Lilium philadelphicum andinum, commonly known as the Prairie Lily, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woodlands, and sandy or rocky soils in northern and central Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and full sun to light shade, favoring undisturbed natural habitats.
This striking lily typically grows 0.75 to 2.5 feet tall and features upright, unbranched stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately or in whorls. In early to mid-summer, it produces large, upright, bowl-shaped flowers with vivid orange to reddish-orange petals marked by dark spots near the base. Unlike many other lilies, its flowers face upward, making them especially eye-catching in the landscape. The blooms attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and native bees.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Lilium philadelphicum andinum is a rare and beautiful addition to dry prairie gardens, savanna restorations, and well-drained native plantings. Though sensitive to disturbance and not widely available in cultivation, it offers exceptional ornamental and ecological value. It pairs well with drought-tolerant companions like Butterfly Weed, Hoary Vervain, and Little Bluestem.
Lilium philadelphicum andinum, commonly known as the Prairie Lily, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woodlands, and sandy or rocky soils in northern and central Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and full sun to light shade, favoring undisturbed natural habitats.
This striking lily typically grows 0.75 to 2.5 feet tall and features upright, unbranched stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately or in whorls. In early to mid-summer, it produces large, upright, bowl-shaped flowers with vivid orange to reddish-orange petals marked by dark spots near the base. Unlike many other lilies, its flowers face upward, making them especially eye-catching in the landscape. The blooms attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and native bees.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Lilium philadelphicum andinum is a rare and beautiful addition to dry prairie gardens, savanna restorations, and well-drained native plantings. Though sensitive to disturbance and not widely available in cultivation, it offers exceptional ornamental and ecological value. It pairs well with drought-tolerant companions like Butterfly Weed, Hoary Vervain, and Little Bluestem.
Bloom: early to mid-summer
Habitats: grassy meadows; moist to mesic black soil prairies; moist to mesic sand prairies; powerline clearances through natural areas; thinly wooded bluffs
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): forb (0.75 to 2.5 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: loam; sandy loam
