Around 1950, famous Oregon-based hybridizer Jan de Graaf introduced what he called his Mid-Century Hybrids.

These were shorter and sturdier than the Oriental lilies that were then most popular. They were hardy in the garden, excellent long-lived cut flowers in the vase, and had upright, not hanging flowers.

Today, we call this category Asiatic lilies, one of the most popular categories of lilies on the market.

Indeed, they are the largest category of lilies available today and remain prized for their straight stems, evenly stepped foliage, profusion of buds and bright flowers.

The blooms vary in shape from flowers with simple open bowls to flowers with curved petals. Colors range from the most delicate pastels to bold reds and oranges.

Asiatic hybrids are not fragrant. Asiatics usually have about five flower clusters per stem.

Easy to produce and prolific, they are less expensive than other lilies and are a perfect choice for arrangements that call for masses of color.