The Ellermann Guide to Luxury Lily Varieties for Exquisite Flower Arrangements
Lilies represent the pinnacle of floral elegance, offering dramatic presence, intoxicating fragrances, and stunning visual impact in luxury arrangements. This Ellermann Flowers guide explores the most prestigious lily varieties that elevate any floral design to extraordinary heights.
Oriental Lilies: The Crown Jewels
Casa Blanca
Color: Pure white with pristine petals
Fragrance: Intensely sweet and heady
Size: Large blooms up to 10 inches across
Best Use: Bridal bouquets, funeral arrangements, and sophisticated centerpieces
Special Notes: The most popular white Oriental lily; often considered the gold standard
Stargazer
Color: Deep pink with burgundy spots and white edges
Fragrance: Rich, penetrating scent
Size: Large, upward-facing blooms
Best Use: Statement arrangements, romantic designs
Special Notes: The most recognizable luxury lily; commands premium pricing
Le Rêve
Color: Soft peachy-pink with subtle gradations
Fragrance: Sweet and romantic
Size: Extra-large blooms
Best Use: Wedding arrangements, upscale hotel displays
Special Notes: Exceptionally long vase life; highly sought after by luxury florists
Black Beauty
Color: Deep burgundy-red with darker spots
Fragrance: Intense and exotic
Size: Medium to large blooms
Best Use: Dramatic contemporary arrangements
Special Notes: Rare variety with striking visual impact
Trumpet Lilies: Architectural Elegance
Regale (Regal Lily)
Color: White with yellow throat and purple exterior
Fragrance: Sweet and powerful
Size: Large trumpet-shaped blooms
Best Use: Garden-style arrangements, vintage-inspired designs
Special Notes: Historic variety with timeless appeal
Golden Splendor
Color: Rich golden yellow
Fragrance: Sweet and honey-like
Size: Large, outward-facing trumpets
Best Use: Luxury hotel lobbies, corporate arrangements
Special Notes: Commands high prices due to stunning color saturation
Pink Perfection
Color: Deep rose-pink
Fragrance: Intense and sweet
Size: Large trumpet blooms
Best Use: Romantic arrangements, special occasions
Special Notes: Rare variety with exceptional fragrance intensity
Asiatic Hybrids: Clean Sophistication
Navona
Color: Pure white
Fragrance: None (advantage in some settings)
Size: Medium, upward-facing blooms
Best Use: Modern minimalist arrangements, restaurants
Special Notes: Perfect for scent-sensitive environments
Black Out
Color: Deep burgundy-black
Fragrance: None
Size: Medium blooms
Best Use: Contemporary dramatic designs
Special Notes: Striking color creates premium visual impact
Fire King
Color: Vibrant orange-red
Fragrance: None
Size: Large, bold blooms
Best Use: Modern arrangements, corporate settings
Special Notes: Exceptional color intensity and longevity
Specialty Lilies: Ultra-Luxury Options
Gloriosa Superba (Flame Lily)
Color: Red and yellow with curved petals
Fragrance: Mild
Size: Unique, exotic appearance
Best Use: High-end tropical arrangements
Special Notes: Extremely expensive; requires special handling
Tree Lilies
Varieties: Orienpet hybrids like 'Conca d'Or', 'Orienpet Gold'
Color: Various, typically large and fragrant
Size: Exceptionally large blooms on tall stems
Best Use: Grand arrangements, luxury events
Special Notes: Rare and expensive; dramatic height and presence
Double Oriental Lilies
Varieties: 'Aphrodite', 'Roselily Maria'
Color: Various, with full, ruffled petals
Fragrance: Often reduced compared to single varieties
Best Use: Luxury bridal work, special occasions
Special Notes: Ultra-premium pricing due to complex breeding
Seasonal Availability and Pricing
Peak Season
Spring/Summer: Fresh, local varieties at best prices
Fall: Imported varieties, premium pricing
Winter: Limited availability, highest prices
Market Considerations
Oriental lilies: $8-15 per stem
Specialty varieties: $12-25 per stem
Rare cultivars: $20-40 per stem
Import premiums: 30-50% price increase
Design Applications
Bridal Arrangements
Casa Blanca for classic elegance
Le Rêve for romantic softness
Combine with white roses and orchids
Corporate Settings
Navona for clean, modern appeal
Golden Splendor for luxury impact
Avoid heavily fragrant varieties
Special Events
Stargazer for dramatic impact
Tree lilies for grand scale
Black Beauty for contemporary edge
Funeral Arrangements
Casa Blanca for traditional sympathy
White trumpet lilies for classic elegance
Focus on pure white varieties
Care and Handling Tips
Conditioning
Cut stems at 45-degree angle under water
Remove lower leaves and pollen-heavy anthers
Use floral preservative immediately
Vase Life Extension
Change water every 2-3 days
Recut stems regularly
Keep away from heat sources
Expect 7-14 days depending on variety
Professional Considerations
Order 2-3 days before events
Allow closed buds to open naturally
Handle carefully to prevent petal damage
Remove pollen to prevent staining
Sourcing Premium Lilies
Wholesale Markets
Focus on farms known for luxury varieties
Establish relationships with specialty growers
Inspect for tight buds and strong stems
Import Considerations
Netherlands and New Zealand for premium quality
Chile for counter-seasonal availability
Quality commands 20-40% premium
Storage
Refrigerate at 34-36°F
Maintain high humidity
Avoid ethylene exposure
Process immediately upon receipt
Ellermann Florist Tips
Luxury lilies represent the apex of floral sophistication, offering unmatched drama, fragrance, and visual impact. By selecting premium varieties like Casa Blanca, Stargazer, and specialty cultivars, florists can create arrangements that justify premium pricing and exceed client expectations. Success with luxury lilies requires understanding seasonal availability, proper handling techniques, and the unique characteristics that make each variety special.
