Turk's Cap Lily, Martagon lily

Lilium martagon

Physical Characteristics

Lilium martagon is a BULB growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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

Europe to W. Asia. Naturalized in Britain.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - cooked[2, 14, 61]. It is often dried for later use[46]. Rich in starch, it can be used as a vegetable in similar ways to potatoes (Solanum tuberosum).

Medicinal Uses

Cardiac Diuretic Emmenagogue Emollient Expectorant The bulb is diuretic, emmenagogue, emollient and expectorant[240]. They are used to relieve heart diseases, pain in the cardiac region and angina pectoris[240].

Known Hazards

None known