Citron day-lily (Hemerocallis citrina)

Also known as: Yellow Daylily, Citron Daylily

The citron daylily, native to China and eastern Asia, is frequently utilized in Asian cuisine. This perennial plant is renowned for its large, aromatic, trumpet-shaped flowers that typically blossom in the summer.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Citron day-lily

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

91 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

15 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Citron day-lily

Quickly Identify Citron day-lily

Look for large yellow flowers, typically blooming in the evening with a strong fragrance. The plant has tall, grass-like leaves and forms dense clumps.

Scientific Classification of Citron day-lily

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagus and allies

Family

Asphodel

Genus

Daylilies

Species

Citron day-lily

Planting and Growing of Citron day-lily

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Citron day-lily?

Each time you water Hemerocallis citrina, ensure that you provide approximately 500 ml of water. This ensures that the entire root system is adequately moistened without over-saturating the soil. Wait until the top layer of the soil feels dry to ensure proper absorption and to avoid root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Citron day-lily? ›

What should I do if my Citron day-lily is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Citron day-lily? ›

How to save an overwatered Citron day-lily? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Citron day-lily?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Hemerocallis citrina ideally thrives in full sun to partial sun, ensuring at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. This light exposure supports robust bloom development and a healthy, vigorous plant structure with resilient foliage.

How much sunlight does it need? ›

What can be done to optimize sunlight exposure? ›

What are the benefits of receiving ideal sunlight? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Citron day-lily?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Hemerocallis citrina is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth, allowing the plant to thrive and produce vibrant blooms. It is crucial to maintain this temperature during the growing season for the best results.

What Soil is Best for Citron day-lily?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Hemerocallis citrina thrives in well-drained soil as it prevents waterlogging, which could lead to root rot. Ensuring good drainage improves the overall health and vitality of the plant by allowing roots to access oxygen efficiently. This plant prefers soil with moderate fertility. Adequate nutrient levels are essential for robust growth and prolific blooming, providing the plant with enough energy to sustain its vibrant flowers over the blooming period. Hemerocallis citrina benefits from soils that can retain moisture without becoming soggy. This balance ensures the plant has consistent access to water, crucial for maintaining its lush foliage and frequent blooms, especially during dry spells.

How to Fertilize Citron day-lily?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Hemerocallis citrina, commonly known as lemon daylily, thrives when provided with moderate amounts of fertilizer. A balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer is ideal, with a concentration of about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for liquid applications. Slow-release formulations should equally be applied in a manner that aligns with the manufacturer's instructions.

How to Prune Citron day-lily?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

To prune Hemerocallis citrina, start by removing spent flower stalks down to the base. This process encourages the plant to focus energy on new growth. Trim back any yellowing or dead leaves, ensuring you cut them near the base to maintain a tidy appearance. For overgrown plants, consider dividing them during this pruning process to enhance vigor. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Citron day-lily plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late summer

After blooming, wait for the seed pods of Hemerocallis citrina to dry on the plant before collecting them. Once harvested, clean the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant.

Sow the cleaned seeds in well-drained soil, covering them lightly with a thin layer of soil. Keep the seeds moist and place them in a location that receives ample sunlight to promote successful germination.

For division propagation, dig up established clumps during early spring or late summer. Use a sharp knife to separate the roots, ensuring each division has a healthy fan of leaves and root system before replanting.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Citron day-lily plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

The right time to repot Hemerocallis citrina is when you notice roots starting to circle the bottom of the pot or protruding through drainage holes. This indicates that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space to breathe and continue thriving.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. Clay pots are ideal as they allow soil to breathe and prevent overwatering, promoting healthier root growth and providing stability to the daylilies.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture yet allows excess water to escape easily. A mixture with organic matter ensures that the plant gets adequate nutrients while avoiding root rot, crucial for their vigorous growth.

Toxicity

Golden pothos contains a chemical called calcium oxalate, which is mildly toxic to humans if ingested or if the skin comes into significant physical contact with its sap. Symptoms of ingesting golden pothos may include eczema (itchy, red, swollen, irritated skin), burning, inflammation of the mouth, and vomiting. Contact with the sap can also cause dermatitis: an uncomfortable, itchy rash. The leaves of the golden pothos, if ingested, will irritate your dog's mouth and gastrointestinal tract. Chewing the leaves or stems of this plant causes intense irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips in cats.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.