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Lilies

Lilies are flowering plants in the genus *Lilium*, within the family Liliaceae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Lilies are flowering plants in the genus *Lilium*, within the family Liliaceae. They are known for large, showy flowers, grow from bulbs or rhizomes, and are widely cultivated as ornamentals. In Canada, lilies are commonly grown in gardens and as cut flowers.

Description

True lilies are herbaceous flowering plants with large, showy flowers and underground storage organs such as bulbs. Their flowers are typically six-parted, a characteristic commonly associated with the lily family.

Distribution and habitat

Most species of *Lilium* are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with many occurring in Europe, Asia, and North America. They are found in a range of temperate and some subtropical habitats.

Cultivation and uses

Lilies are widely cultivated as ornamentals and cut flowers because of their prominent blooms and variety of forms. The group has also been extensively hybridized, producing many garden varieties.

The word “lily” is used for many unrelated plants, including water lilies and calla lilies, but these are not true lilies. In botanical usage, true lilies refer specifically to *Lilium*.

Key facts

  • True lilies belong to the genus *Lilium* and are herbaceous perennials.
  • Most species are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
  • Lilies are widely cultivated as ornamentals and have been extensively hybridized.
  • Many plants called “lily” are not true lilies.
  • True lilies are highly toxic to cats.
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Canadian context

Lilies are widely grown in Canadian gardens and as cut flowers, especially in temperate climates across the country.

Frequently asked questions

What are true lilies?
True lilies are plants in the genus *Lilium*, a group of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Liliaceae.
Where do lilies grow naturally?
Most true lilies are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
Are all plants called lilies related?
No. Many plants with “lily” in their common name are not true lilies and belong to other genera or families.
Why are lilies popular in gardens?
They are valued for their large, showy flowers and have been widely hybridized for ornamental use.
Are true lilies toxic to cats?
Yes. True lilies are highly toxic to cats.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/lily
    Supports: Genus *Lilium*, family Liliaceae, approximate species count, native range, ornamental use
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lilium
    Supports: Herbaceous flowering plants, bulbs, native range, distinction between true lilies and plants with lily in the common name, cat toxicity
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/Liliaceae
    Supports: Family characteristics of Liliaceae, six-parted flowers, underground storage structures, ornamental importance