If you’ve ever admired a burst of vibrant blooms in the heat of summer, there’s a good chance you were looking at daylilies. Hardy, beautiful, and forgiving to grow, these perennials are a favorite among gardeners of all skill levels. But with thousands of varieties to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Picking the right daylily for your garden comes down to knowing what you want and what will thrive in your space. To make the process easier, many nurseries now offer garden delivery, bringing your chosen plants straight to your doorstep.
1. Start with the Basics
Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are not true lilies — they’re a different species entirely — but they share the same elegance. They grow from fleshy roots rather than bulbs and produce long, strappy leaves with flower stalks that can bloom for weeks. While each bloom lasts only a day, healthy plants produce dozens of buds per stem, giving you a continuous show.
If you want a broad selection and expert guidance, you can explore varieties from Swallowtail Daylilies, a nursery specializing in diverse and well-bred daylily cultivars.
2. Choose Your Color and Bloom Shape
Daylilies come in an astonishing range of colors: sunny yellows, deep purples, fiery oranges, soft pinks, and even near-black tones. Some varieties feature blends, eyes (contrasting centers), or edges with ruffled or picotee patterns.
Tip:
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Bold colors like orange and red stand out in large spaces.
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Pastels blend beautifully in cottage or shaded gardens.
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Ruffled edges and doubles add extra texture and drama.
3. Think About Bloom Time
One of the best parts about daylilies is that you can mix varieties to have color all season long. Bloom times vary:
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Early season (late spring to early summer)
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Mid-season (peak summer)
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Late season (late summer to early fall)
If you want maximum impact, include at least one from each category. Some varieties are rebloomers, meaning they produce multiple flushes of flowers.
4. Match the Height to Your Garden Layout
Daylily heights range from short, compact plants to tall, statuesque blooms:
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Dwarf (under 18 inches) – perfect for borders and small spaces
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Medium (18–30 inches) – versatile for most gardens
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Tall (over 30 inches) – ideal for the back of flower beds
5. Consider Climate and Hardiness
Most daylilies are incredibly adaptable, but some varieties perform better in specific climates. Check the USDA Hardiness Zone for each variety you’re considering. For example, evergreen types may not be ideal in extremely cold regions, while dormant types handle winters well.
For reliable guidance, many gardeners refer to resources like the American Daylily Society when choosing climate-appropriate varieties.
6. Popular Daylily Varieties at a Glance
Here’s a quick comparison of some well-loved varieties to help you decide:
7. Don’t Forget Maintenance
Daylilies are low-maintenance, but they still appreciate care:
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Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
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Deadhead spent blooms to keep plants tidy.
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Divide clumps every 3–5 years to maintain vigor.
Even if you neglect them for a season, they’ll often bounce back with just a bit of attention.
8. Match Varieties to Your Garden Style
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Formal garden? Choose uniform colors and heights for symmetry.
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Wildflower or cottage garden? Mix colors, heights, and bloom times for a natural look.
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Pollinator-friendly space? Include fragrant varieties to attract bees and butterflies.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right daylily variety isn’t just about picking a pretty flower — it’s about finding plants that match your climate, garden style, and maintenance preferences. Start with one or two types you love, see how they do in your space, and expand over time. With the right mix, you can enjoy vibrant, low-maintenance blooms from spring through fall.
