Canada Lily
Lilium canadense
Last reviewed: June 2026
Canada Lily (Lilium canadense) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, beetles
Canada lily produces elegant nodding yellow or orange flowers with dark spots on tall stems from summer into early fall. This native perennial grows in clumps and prefers partially shaded areas with consistent moisture, making it ideal for woodland gardens or naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Canada Lily takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare ground
- Can appear wild or unkempt compared to typical landscaping
- May spread naturally which some HOAs consider weedy
Wildlife value
The showy flowers attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and beetles throughout the long blooming season. Seeds also provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Canada Lily need?
- Canada Lily grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Canada Lily bloom?
- Canada Lily blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Canada Lily native?
- Canada Lily (Lilium canadense) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 17 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Canada Lily toxic to dogs?
- Canada Lily is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Canada Lily toxic to cats?
- Yes. Canada Lily is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- What pollinators does Canada Lily attract?
- Canada Lily draws bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and beetles.
- Is Canada Lily HOA-friendly?
- Canada Lily takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Canada Lily? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz