Lilies: Care Tips and What Cat Owners Need to Know
Lilies are elegant but need special care. Learn how to remove pollen, extend vase life and why lilies are dangerous for cats.
Lilies (Lilien) are among the most elegant flowers you can give. Their large blooms and rich scent make a strong impression, but they also come with a few things worth knowing, especially if you have cats at home.
Important: lilies and cats
True lilies are highly toxic to cats. Every part of the plant is dangerous, including the pollen and the water in the vase. If a cat has chewed a lily or licked pollen from its fur, contact a vet immediately. If you share a home with cats, it is safest not to bring lilies inside. See our guide to pet-safe flowers for alternatives.
How to care for lilies
- Trim 2 to 3 cm from the stems at an angle.
- Use clean, lukewarm water and a clean vase.
- Remove leaves below the water line.
- Keep the bouquet in a cool place, out of direct sun.
- Remove faded flowers so the new buds can open.
Dealing with pollen
Lily pollen stains fabric and skin. As soon as a flower opens, gently pinch off the orange anthers with a tissue. This also helps the flower last longer. If pollen falls on clothing, brush it off with a soft brush rather than wiping.
Scent
Many lilies have a strong scent that fills a room. That can be lovely in a large space but overwhelming in a small one, or for someone who is unwell. Think about where the flowers will stand.
When lilies work well
White lilies are common at weddings and for sympathy arrangements, and coloured lilies are a bold gift for a birthday or anniversary. Browse lilies. For sympathy, read sympathy and funeral flowers in Germany.
General flower care
For advice that applies to all bouquets, see 10 simple tips to make cut flowers last longer.
Related reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. True lilies are highly toxic to cats, and even a small amount of pollen or vase water can be dangerous. Contact a vet immediately if your cat has contact with lilies.
Gently remove the orange anthers with a tissue as soon as the flowers open. Do not touch them with your fingers.
With good care, a lily bouquet can last a week or more, as new buds open one after another.
Many lilies are very fragrant, so they may be too strong for small rooms or for someone who is unwell.
Shop related products
Flowers and gifts that go with this article. Delivery is a flat €7 anywhere in Germany.
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