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Michigan Lily

Lilium michiganense

Last reviewed: June 2026

Michigan Lily (Lilium michiganense)
Photo: (c) Cullen Hanks, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Cullen Hanks

Michigan Lily (Lilium michiganense) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org, 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

Native to

AL, AR, IA, IL and 13 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, hummingbirds

This lily is a stunning native wildflower that produces bright orange flowers with dark spots and recurved petals in summer. This tall, elegant perennial grows from bulbs and naturalizes well in partly shaded areas with consistent moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Michigan 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.

  • Very tall and wild-looking appearance
  • Can spread and naturalize beyond planted area
  • Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

The large, nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds during the summer blooming period. The seeds also provide food for birds and small mammals.

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.

Does Michigan Lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.