Hemerocallis altissima

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

Succeeds in most soils. According to the Flora of China, this species is no more than a synonym for H. citrina. It is, however, seen as a distinct species in other treatments and so is maintained here as a separate species[K]. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. The plant forms pseudobulbs, these stand vertically in the ground. Individual flowers are very short-lived, they open in the late afternoon and fade in the following morning. Plants take a year or two to become established after being moved. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits. The plants are very susceptible to slug and snail damage, the young growth in spring is especially at risk.

Propagation

Seed - sow in the middle of spring in a greenhouse. Germination is usually fairly rapid and good, pot up the seedlings in individual pots when they are large enough to handle. Grow the plants on for their first winter in a greenhouse and plant out in late spring[K]. Division in spring or after flowering in late summer or autumn. Division is very quick and easy, succeeding at almost any time of the year[K]. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.

Edible uses

Leaves and young shoots - cooked. They must be consumed when very young or else they become fibrous[K]. Flowers and flower buds - raw or cooked. Root - raw or cooked.

Medicinal uses

The juice of the roots is an effective antidote in cases of arsenic poisoning. A tea made from the boiled roots is used as a diuretic.

Material uses

The tough dried foliage is plaited into cord and used for making footwear.

Habitat

Forest margins, grassy fields and slopes along valleys, from near sea level to 2000 metres.

Native range

E. Asia - S. China.