Part of the Hemerocallidaceae family, Hemerocallis or daylilies are not true lilies. The name Hemerocallis is based on the Greek words for day and beauty, as the beautiful flowers in fact last only one day, in general opening at sunrise and withering away at sunset, to be replaced by another bloom on the same stem the following day. However, some of the more than 60,000 named cultivars are night blooming.

The large number of cultivars is reflective of the fact that Hemerocallis are not only beautiful, but easy to grow as well, making them a popular selection for many garden and landscape settings. They are available in a variety of colors and shapes, and there are cultivars available to suit hardiness zones of 1 through 11.

The flower consists of three petals and three sepals, known as tepals. The centre of the flower, referred to as the throat, is usually a different and contrasting color. There are six stamens, each with a two-lobed anther.

With hybridizers introducing literally thousands of new cultivars each year, Hemerocallis is now available in a wide range of colors ranging from yellows, oranges and pinks, to purples, black and white. The quest is for a true blue cultivar, and although some come close, a true blue variety is yet to be developed. Other desirable characteristics which help to set cultivars apart from the competition include height and scent.

Although an easy to grow perennial, to allow for better root establishment, it is suggested that Hemerocallis not be allowed to bloom the first year in the garden. For more daylily information, check out Growing Daylilies and Hemerocallis/Daylilies