Humboldt Lily
Lilium humboldtii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Humboldt Lily is a native California wildflower that produces striking orange blooms with dark spots during June and July. This bulbous perennial thrives in partial sun and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Humboldt Lily (Lilium humboldtii) 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"–72" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Humboldt lily is a striking native perennial that produces spectacular orange-yellow flowers with maroon spots on tall stalks. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and hang downward, creating a dramatic display in summer gardens. This lily prefers part shade and moderate water, making it ideal for woodland garden settings.
Growing Humboldt Lily
Grow Humboldt Lily in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 72 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Humboldt Lily is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Tall flower stalks may appear untidy after blooming
- Goes dormant in winter, leaving bare spots
- Best used as accent rather than mass planting
Wildlife value
Humboldt lily provides valuable nectar for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies during its summer bloom period. The large, showy flowers are particularly attractive to swallowtail butterflies.
Common questions
- When does Humboldt Lily bloom?
- Humboldt Lily typically blooms during June and July, producing large, nodding orange flowers with dark purple spots.
- What pollinators visit Humboldt Lily?
- Humboldt Lily attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its showy orange flowers and abundant nectar.
- Where is Humboldt Lily native?
- Humboldt Lily is native to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral, woodland edges, and mountain meadows.
- What growing conditions does Humboldt Lily prefer?
- This lily prefers partial sun to light shade with well-draining soil and moderate moisture levels during the growing season.
- Is Humboldt Lily toxic to dogs?
- Humboldt Lily is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Humboldt Lily toxic to cats?
- Yes. Humboldt 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.
- Is Humboldt Lily HOA-friendly?
- Humboldt Lily is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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 Humboldt 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