This week it’s: Asiatic and other lilies

LILIES are admired the world over for both their spectacular beauty and enduring mystique. They have a place in any garden, whether it’s formal or informal, massive or tiny. And their popularity has increased dramatically in the past couple of decades, as new gardeners have found them to be easy to grow. There are around 90 species in the lilium genus, but the most popular lilies are the Asiatic hybrids, quickly followed by the Oriental and Aurelian hybrids. Lilies are growing apace now, with flowers about to burst open (if they haven’t already), so the time is right to take a look at these captivating plants.

■ Lilies are second only to roses as the most