Ruby Stella Daylily

Ruby Stella Daylily

The Ruby Stella Daylily is a stunning perennial known for its vibrant ruby-red flowers and ease of care. A member of the Stella de Oro family, this variety boasts long-lasting blooms that brighten up any garden with its striking color and dependable growth. With its compact size and profuse flowering, Ruby Stella is perfect for garden beds, borders, or containers, offering months of vibrant color throughout the summer.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Red Blooms: Ruby-red flowers create a striking contrast in the garden and are perfect for adding bold color.
• Long Blooming Period: Enjoy flowers from late spring to early fall, providing consistent beauty in your landscape.
• Compact Growth Habit: This variety grows to about 12–18 inches tall, making it ideal for smaller gardens or as a border plant.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
• Attracts Pollinators: The bright, fragrant blooms attract bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthier garden.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, upright stems with clusters of bright ruby-red flowers.
• Flower Profile: Each bloom is large, trumpet-shaped, and lasts for a day, but new blooms open daily during the growing season.
• Growth Habit: Ruby Stella Daylily grows in dense clumps, with grassy, green foliage that serves as an excellent backdrop for its colorful flowers.
• Size: Typically reaches 12–18 inches in height, with a spread of 18–24 inches.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best Time to Plant: Spring or early fall for optimal growth.
• Temperature Range: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F–75°F (15°C–24°C).

Planting Details

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun to partial shade. For best blooms, plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Watering Needs: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, providing about 1 inch of water per week.
• Draining: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in heavy, clay soils.

Fertilization

• Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring and again in midsummer to support continued blooming.
• Organic Matter: Incorporate organic compost to improve soil structure and fertility.

Weeding and Mulching

• Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool.
• Weeding: Keep the area around the plants free from weeds to prevent competition for nutrients and water.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Daylilies are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or water spray to control.
• Diseases: Watch for fungal diseases like rust or mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal infections.

Harvesting

• Cutting for Bouquets: Daylily flowers can be cut for use in fresh flower arrangements. However, note that individual flowers last only one day.
• Pruning: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.

Storage

• Winter Care: Ruby Stella Daylilies are hardy in USDA zones 3–9, and typically do not require winter protection. In colder climates, mulch around the base to protect roots.
• Long-Term Storage: If dividing or transplanting, ensure the roots are stored in a cool, dry place until ready for replanting.

Culinary Uses

• Edible Flowers: The flowers of daylilies are edible and can be used in salads, teas, or as garnishes. Note that only the flowers are edible; avoid consuming other parts of the plant.

Conclusion

The Ruby Stella Daylily is a must-have for gardeners seeking vibrant color with minimal maintenance. Its long bloom time, compact growth, and attractive red flowers make it a standout in any garden. Whether used in borders, containers, or mixed beds, this hardy perennial is sure to provide stunning seasonal beauty with very little effort.