SKU: 00840369420596 3 'Viva La Vida' Lily hybrid lily (Asiatic x Oriental cross) Bulbs

Key Features

• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming perennial with sturdy stems and glossy lance-shaped foliage.
• Bloom Color: Large golden-yellow flowers with dramatic crimson-red centers and lightly recurved petals.
• Fragrance: Lightly fragrant, combining the subtle scent of Asiatic lilies with the delicate perfume of Oriental hybrids.
• Fruit Flavor: None; produces ornamental seed pods if flowers are left intact.
• Culinary Uses: None; not edible.
• Medicinal Uses: No recognized medicinal uses.
• Possible Toxicity: Highly toxic to cats. All parts of the plant—including flowers, leaves, stems, pollen, and bulbs—can cause acute kidney failure if ingested by cats. Mild gastrointestinal upset may occur if consumed by dogs or humans.
• Wildlife & Pest Resistance: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Moderately resistant to deer and rabbits, although young shoots and flower buds may occasionally be browsed. Monitor for aphids, slugs, and lily leaf beetles.
• Planting Zone: Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9.
• Sun Preferences: Full sun to partial shade; performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil but tolerates brief dry periods once established.
• Mature Size: Typically grows 30–40 inches tall with a spread of 12–18 inches.

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When and How to Prune

• Remove spent flowers promptly to prevent seed production and encourage energy storage in the bulb.
• Leave all foliage intact until it naturally yellows and dies back, allowing the bulb to replenish nutrients.
• Cut stems back to ground level in late fall after the foliage has completely died.
• Remove damaged or diseased foliage as needed during the growing season.

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Planting Instructions (Bulbs into the Ground)

1. Plant bulbs in fall or early spring when the soil is cool and workable.
2. Choose a location with fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light afternoon shade.
3. Dig a hole 6–8 inches deep, measuring from the top of the bulb to the soil surface.
4. Place bulbs with the pointed end facing upward.
5. Space bulbs 10–12 inches apart to allow for mature growth and good air circulation.
6. Backfill with soil, gently firm the soil, and water thoroughly after planting.
7. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and keep the root zone cool.
8. Water regularly throughout the growing season, keeping the soil evenly moist but never soggy.

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Overwintering Steps

• 'Viva La Vida' is winter hardy throughout USDA Zones 4–9 and can remain in the ground year-round.
• After the first hard frost, allow foliage to die back naturally before cutting stems to ground level.
• Apply a 2–4 inch layer of mulch after the ground freezes to insulate bulbs from repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
• Remove excess mulch gradually in early spring as new shoots emerge.
• Ensure excellent drainage during winter, as bulbs are susceptible to rot in waterlogged soil.
• Divide crowded bulb clumps every 3–5 years in fall to maintain vigorous growth and prolific flowering.

With its brilliant two-toned blooms, sturdy stems, and reliable garden performance, 'Viva La Vida' Hybrid Lily delivers the best qualities of both Asiatic and Oriental lilies. Its dazzling color, elegant form, and dependable reblooming habit make it an exceptional choice for borders, mixed perennial beds, containers, and stunning cut flower arrangements year after year.