LA Hybrids, are a new category of lilies, introduced in 1992.

LA hybrid lilies are named not for the city of Los Angeles but for their parentage. These colorful hybrids are a cross between longiflorum lilies (L) and Asiatic hybrids (A).

These new crossings combine the color range of the Asiatics with the elegant flower form and fragrance of the Longiflorums, which are also known as Easter lilies.

The result: brightly-colored trumpet type lilies. From the longiflorum, the LA hybrid gets a signature trumpet shape, great strength and long vase life.

From the Asiatics, the new hybrids inherit warmer colors and an upright calyx (the green outer spiral of leaf that holds the flower head up).

While the Asiatic varieties continue to be the most plentiful lily varieties, experts say they are fast being overtaken by the new LA hybrids.