Paper Lily: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Them Last

Are you a gardening enthusiast looking to add a touch of elegance to your indoor or outdoor space? The paper lily, also known as Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea', is a stunning, cascading plant that can add a vibrant pop of color to any setting. This easy-to-care-for plant is native to Asia but is now beloved worldwide for its delicate, golden blooms. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of how to make paper lilies thrive in your home or garden.

First, let's talk about what makes paper lilies unique. These plants are perennials, meaning they live for more than two years, and can grow up to 3 feet (1 meter) in length! They flourish in hanging baskets, trailing over walls, or cascading down from elevated planters.

Creating the Perfect Environment

The first step in ensuring your paper lilies grow into a lush, golden waterfall is providing them with the right environment. These plants love humidity and bright, indirect sunlight, making them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or shaded outdoor spaces.

Remember, paper lilies are not called "golden chalicevines" for nothing – they are member of the Primrose family, and like their cousins, they prefer temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C). Avoid placing them in drafts or direct sunlight, as both can scorch their delicate foliage.

Choosing the Right Soil and Container

When selecting a pot or basket for your paper lilies, consider one with good drainage, as these plants can be somewhat sensitive to overwatering. A good potting mix should be well-draining, and rich in organic matter. They prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5.

Hanging baskets with moss liners or succession planters are ideal for paper lilies, as they allow the plant to cascade naturally while providing ample opportunity for root growth and water drainage.

Proper Watering and Feeding

Paper lilies are somewhat drought-tolerant, but consistent watering is key to keeping them healthy and flowering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. During the growing season, water your paper lilies once or twice a week, and reduce to once a week during the winter.

During the spring and summer, feed your paper lilies with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. This will promote abundant, healthy foliage and beautiful golden blooms.

Encouraging Beautiful Blooms

Paper lilies bloom throughout the spring and summer, presenting delicate, cup-shaped, golden flowers even in partial shade. To encourage repeat blooms and maintain the plant's gorgeous cascading shape, regular pruning and pinching are essential.

Each stem of the paper lily (also known as a trachelospermum) is composed of many nodes, and it's at these nodes where new growth spurs. To encourage bushier growth and more blooms, pinch or cut back each stem just above a node during the early spring. This will stimulate the plant to produce more side shoots and create a fuller, more lush appearance.

Pruning and Plant Hygiene

Regularly pruning your paper lilies not only encourages more flowers but also helps keep the plant looking its best. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as soon as you notice it, and trim away any straggly or leggy growth to maintain the plant's attractive, trailing shape.

Additionally, be sure to keep an eye out for pests such as whiteflies, spider mites, or mealybugs. Treat any infestations quickly and appropriately to prevent them from damaging your plants. Using neem oil or insecticidal soap can help control most common pests on paper lilies.

Propagation and Propagation Care

Ready to share your paper lilies with friends or expand your collection? Propagating your paper lilies is a breeze. In late winter or early spring, take 3- to 4-inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining, moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings warm and humid until they root, which should take 4-6 weeks.

Once rooted, gradually acclimate the new plants to your home's temperature and light conditions. After a few weeks, they'll be ready to join your other paper lilies in creating a stunning display of golden blooms throughout your home or garden.

Now that you know how to make paper lilies thrive, it's time to get started! Whether you're looking to brighten up a shady corner of your home or create a show-stopping cascade for your outdoor space, these easy-to-care-for plants are sure to become a beloved addition to your gardening collection. So go ahead, indulge in your green thumb, and watch as your paper lilies transform into a beautiful, golden waterfall of delight.