For those of us that grew up in the 1950s and ‘60s, we know that “Tiger Lily” is the Native American princess from the Piccaninny tribe, who lived on the island of Neverland. (We’re talking J. M. Barrie's "Peter Pan" here, not Michael Jackson.)
Tiger Lily was almost killed by Captain Hook when she was caught boarding the Jolly Roger with a knife. She remained silent, refusing to betray Peter Pan's location until the "boy that wouldn't grow up" eventually rescued her. Both Wendy and Tinker Bell become somewhat jealous of her affection for Peter.
But, to be fair and inclusive, tiger lily (Lilium lancifolium) is also the common name of a spectacular orange and black lily originally from Asia, now widely grown in this country. Calling the flower "tiger" is somewhat curious because although edible by humans (most of the plant, but don't try this at home), all parts of the plant are toxic to cats, resulting in kidney failure in a few days after eating it.
Kitty beware! There's pirates about!
- Photo taken in South Knoxville.
3 comments:
So Lyn, what about those orange "ditch lilies" around these parts? Are those tiger lilies? Or something else?
I need a whole bunch of them. Ideas?
500jerk (still the best name I've heard because I know where you got it)
I think those are simply called orange daylilies. I blogged about them last year. Go to: http://stephenlynbales.blogspot.com/2008/07/roadside.html
They transplant real well. Find a roadside ditch or two and just dig you up some. I do not think anyone would mind, unless it's on private property. Most consider them weeds.
OK?
Stephen Lyn
Thanks so much. I love them.
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