Hemerocallis ‘Frans Hals’, commonly known as the daylily ‘Frans Hals’, is a deciduous perennial celebrated for its distinctive bicoloured blooms. Each flower features three deep reddish-orange inner petals contrasted by three golden-yellow outer petals, all accented with bold creamy-orange midribs. These vibrant, star-shaped flowers, approximately 11 cm (4.5 inches) in diameter, grace the garden from mid to late summer, each bloom lasting just a day but replenished continually during the flowering period.
Key Features:
• Height: Up to 60 cm (24 inches)
• Spread: Up to 50 cm (20 inches)
• Position: Thrives in full sun
• Soil: Prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soil; tolerant of heavy clay and poorer soils
• Flowering Period: June to August
• Hardiness: Rated H6 by the RHS, indicating hardy across all of the UK and northern Europe
Additional Attributes:
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
• Drought Tolerant: Exhibits resilience during dry spells, though regular watering during spring and early summer enhances blooming.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally robust, though it may encounter aphids, slugs, and snails; late-flowering varieties like ‘Frans Hals’ are less susceptible to Hemerocallis gall midge.
• Wildlife Friendly: Attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees, contributing to garden biodiversity.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, coastal settings, and prairie-style plantings.
Care Tips:
• Planting: Install in spring or autumn, spacing plants about 50 cm apart to allow for mature spread.
• Watering: While drought-tolerant, providing water during dry periods in spring and early summer promotes optimal flowering.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to maintain appearance and cut back flower stems after blooming concludes. Remove dead foliage as needed.
• Propagation: Divide clumps every few years in early spring or autumn to rejuvenate and propagate.
Caution: All parts of the plant are toxic to cats; exercise caution if felines frequent your garden.
Incorporating Hemerocallis ‘Frans Hals’ into your garden offers a blend of vibrant colour, structural interest, and seasonal charm, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any outdoor space.