Species Lilies (Turk's Cap)

Why should you choose turk’s cap lily bulbs?

Turk’s Cap lilies offer something a little special for your garden. Their distinct, delicate blooms stand out for their charm, making them ideal if you’re after a plant that adds character without overpowering the space. These lilies are particularly well-suited for gardeners who love plants that look natural and elegant, yet still make a statement.

One of the great things about Turk’s Cap lilies is their versatility. Whether you want to create a wild, cottage-style border or add some vertical interest to a more formal garden, they’ll settle in beautifully. Plus, with their reliable growth and ability to thrive with minimal attention, they’re perfect for both seasoned gardeners and those just starting.

Choose Turk’s Cap lilies, and you’ll be rewarded with a garden feature that’s easy to grow, looks fantastic, and brings that timeless appeal year after year.

Stephen’s turk’s cap bulb top picks

Stephen Teeuw is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. At Peter Nyssen, we offer a wide variety of turk’s cap bulbs to satisfy the needs of any gardening enthusiast. Here are Stephen’s top picks:

• Arabian Knight A deep mahogany petal with contrasting orange spots that electrify in the bright sunlight.
• Claude Shride With a couple of years maturing Claude Schride provides an abundance of deep red flowers. 
• Fairy Morning It’s hard to specify the colour of this lily, gentle pinks and yellows adorned with the distinctive species lily spotting. 

How to plant turk’s cap bulbs

Planting Turk’s Cap lily bulbs is a simple and rewarding task that will add a touch of elegance and height to your garden. Follow these steps to ensure your bulbs thrive and produce their unique, graceful blooms.

• Choose the right location: Turk’s Cap lilies prefer well-drained soil and will thrive in full sun or light-dappled shade. They are perfect for garden beds, borders, or even containers, making them versatile for different spaces in your garden.
• Prepare the soil: Dig to a depth of about 10 to 15 cm, loosening the soil to improve drainage. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some organic matter like compost or grit to ensure the bulbs don’t sit in waterlogged conditions, which can lead to rot.
• Plant the bulbs: Place each bulb 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) deep with the pointed end facing upwards. Space the bulbs about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) apart to give each plant room to grow and spread. For a more dramatic display, plant them in groups or drifts for a natural, meadow-like look.
• Water thoroughly: After planting, water the area well to help the bulbs settle in. Although Turk’s Cap lilies are fairly low-maintenance, regular watering during dry spells will encourage strong, healthy growth, especially in the early stages.
• Apply a layer of mulch: Adding a light layer of mulch will help retain moisture, protect the bulbs from harsh winter weather, and suppress weeds. This extra layer of care helps give the bulbs the best chance to establish well.
• Monitor and maintain: Turk’s Cap lilies are generally low-maintenance, but after blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This helps the bulbs store energy for the next growing season. Avoid cutting the leaves too soon, as this can weaken the bulbs and reduce their vigour for the following year.

By following these steps, you’ll create the ideal conditions for your Turk’s Cap lilies to thrive, rewarding you with their charming, nodding blooms and elegant presence in the garden year after year.

Why choose Peter Nyssen bulbs?

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience
• Our bulbs are packaged in compostable, starch-based bags where possible
• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50
• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 
• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

FAQs 

How long do Turk’s Cap lilies take to bloom after planting?

Turk’s Cap lilies usually take around 12 to 16 weeks to bloom after planting, depending on when you plant them and the growing conditions. In the UK, they typically flower in mid to late summer, adding a lovely pop of colour during the warmer months.

Can I grow Turk’s Cap lilies in pots?

Yes, Turk’s Cap lilies can be grown in pots quite easily. Make sure the pot is deep enough for the roots and has good drainage. Use a quality, free-draining compost mix, and place the pot in a sunny or lightly shaded spot for best results.

Are Turk’s Cap lilies resistant to deer and rabbits?

Turk’s Cap lilies aren’t usually bothered by deer or rabbits, as they tend to avoid them due to the plant’s slightly toxic nature. However, if you’re in an area with a lot of wildlife, it’s always a good idea to use some form of protection to be safe.

Can Turk’s Cap lilies handle cold UK winters?

Yes, Turk’s Cap lilies are hardy and can withstand cold UK winters, even in frosty conditions. They are well suited to most parts of the UK, but in colder regions, adding a layer of mulch in winter will help protect the bulbs from freezing temperatures.

How often should I divide Turk’s Cap lilies?

Turk’s Cap lilies generally don’t need dividing for several years. However, if you notice fewer flowers, it may be time to divide them—usually every 3 to 5 years is ideal. The best time to do this is either in autumn or early spring to encourage stronger growth and more blooms.

Need more help?

If you're ready to add a touch of elegance to your garden, explore our selection of Turk’s Cap lilies today. These beautiful, hardy lilies are perfect for creating height and charm in any garden setting.

For the best results, make sure to plant your bulbs in the right conditions. Need some advice? Our Turk’s Cap lily planting guide is full of tips to help your lilies thrive.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Whether you're looking for the perfect planting spot, need help with bulb quantities, or have a larger landscaping project in mind, we're here to help!