Hong Kong Lily

Lilium brownii

Physical Characteristics

Lilium brownii is a BULB growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Southern China from Hong Kong, to Burma

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Root Edible Uses: Condiment Bulb - cooked[61, 105, 163]. A pleasant slightly sweet taste[183], they are used as a vegetable in much the same way as potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). A starch can be extracted from the bulbs and added to other foods[183]. The grated bulb can be added as a thickener to soups etc[183]. The bulb is usually rather small[260] - it is 25 - 40mm in diameter[266]. The dried flower petals are used as a flavouring in soups[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive Carminative Diuretic Expectorant Febrifuge Pectoral Poultice Sedative Tonic The bulb is antitussive, diuretic, carminative, expectorant, febrifuge, pectoral, sedative and tonic[147, 176, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of coughs and haematemesis due to deficiency condition, anxiety, apprehension, oedema and difficult urination[147]. Bulbils from the leaf axils are used in the treatment of intestinal disorders[218]. The dried and powdered flowers are used as a poultice for bruises, cuts etc[218].

Known Hazards

None known