Bamboo Lily (Lilium japonicum)

Family: Liliaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Lilium japonicum is a BULB growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Bulb - cooked. It contains about 18% starch. A slightly bitter taste. It can be used as a vegetable in similar ways to potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). — It contains about 18% starch.; A slightly bitter taste.; It can be used as a vegetable in similar ways to potatoes (Solanum tuberosum).

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets on hills and low mountains in rich loose woodland soil, often amongst dwarf bamboo, 300 - 900 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)