Hemerocallis ‘Catherine Woodbury’ short overview
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' is a classic fragrant daylily valued for its large pale orchid-pink to lavender-pink flowers and glowing yellow-green throat. This clump-forming perennial develops graceful, arching strap-like foliage and performs best in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. It is useful in borders, cottage gardens, containers, and mass plantings, but should be kept away from cats because Hemerocallis can cause serious poisoning if ingested.
Taxonomic classification
Hemerocallis ‘Catherine Woodbury’ care guide
Light and placement
Grow in full sun for the strongest flowering, ideally with at least six hours of direct light. Light afternoon shade is tolerated and can help preserve delicate pink coloration in hot climates, but dense shade commonly reduces bloom. Too little light produces more foliage and fewer scapes; harsh reflected heat with drought can scorch foliage and shorten flower life.
Watering and humidity
Water deeply when the upper few inches of soil begin to dry, directing water to the root zone rather than the foliage. Keep newly planted divisions evenly moist through their first season. Established plants tolerate short dry periods, but supplemental water during spring and early summer drought supports better scape development and bloom.
Soil and growing medium
Use fertile, loamy soil enriched with organic matter and capable of holding even moisture without remaining waterlogged. Daylilies tolerate clay and less-than-perfect soils, but drainage is important, especially in winter. A slightly acidic to slightly alkaline garden soil is suitable; avoid chronically saturated sites.
Feeding
Apply a modest balanced perennial fertilizer or a layer of compost in early spring as growth begins. Water fertilizer into the soil and keep it off the foliage. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, which can produce lush leaves at the expense of flowers, and do not heavily fertilize drought-stressed or newly planted divisions.
Growth and habit
This cultivar forms a dense, gradually expanding clump of fans. Mature plants usually become more floriferous as the crown develops, and division every few years can rejuvenate crowded clumps. Good air circulation and regular removal of old scapes help maintain a tidy display.
Planting and repotting
Plant in spring or early fall when the soil is workable. Set the crown so the junction between roots and leaves is at, or just slightly below, soil level; burying it deeply can reduce vigor. Space plants about 24–30 inches apart and water consistently during the first growing season.
Repot or divide container-grown plants in early spring or early fall, moving them into fresh, well-drained potting mix. Choose a container wide enough for the clump and provide drainage holes. Replant the crown at the same level it was previously growing.
Propagation and pruning
Propagation
Divide established clumps in early spring or early fall by lifting the crown and separating fans with healthy roots. Seed propagation is possible, but seedlings will not come true to 'Catherine Woodbury' and are mainly useful for breeding.
Pruning
Remove spent flower scapes after flowering to keep the planting tidy and prevent unnecessary seed development. Trim yellowing or frost-damaged foliage after it declines, especially for dormant plants, but avoid removing healthy leaves during the active growing season.
Overwintering
Plants are hardy across much of the United States, including cold regions around USDA Zone 3 when well established. In colder areas, apply a light mulch after the ground begins to freeze, keeping mulch away from the crown. Container plants have less root insulation and should be protected in an unheated sheltered location or sunk into the ground.
Uses
Use in perennial borders, cottage gardens, mass plantings, slopes, and large containers. The long scapes and attractive flowers also suit informal cut-flower arrangements, although individual blooms are short-lived. Do not use as an edible plant because cultivar-specific food safety has not been established and the plant is dangerous to cats.
Appearance
The plant has narrow, arching, grass-like leaves arranged in a basal fan. Upright branched scapes rise above the foliage and carry large, elegant flowers in pale orchid pink to lavender-pink, usually with a contrasting yellow-green throat. The clump-forming habit and fine grassy texture help distinguish it from true lilies.
Flowering
Large, trumpet-shaped flowers are produced on upright, branched scapes above the foliage. Individual blooms open for about one day, with successive buds extending the display through the summer. This cultivar is generally described as midseason and fragrant; repeat-blooming claims are inconsistent among sources.
Pollination and visitors
Daylily flowers can provide nectar for butterflies and other flower visitors. Extension guidance supports butterfly use for Hemerocallis generally, but a pollinator study specific to 'Catherine Woodbury' was not located. This ornamental hybrid should not be treated as a substitute for regionally native pollinator plants.
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' photos
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Diseases and pests
Diseases
Usually dependable, but leaf streak, fungal leaf spot, rust, crown rot, and bacterial soft rot can occur. Reduce risk with good air circulation, careful watering at the soil surface, sanitation of spent foliage, and removal of infected leaves. Avoid planting crowns too deeply or leaving them in saturated soil.
Pests
Aphids, thrips, slugs, snails, daylily gall midge, and spider mites may occur. Inspect new growth and flower buds, remove heavily affected tissue, improve garden sanitation, and use targeted controls only when needed. Avoid routine broad-spectrum insecticides during bloom to reduce harm to visiting insects.
Toxicity and pollen
ASPCA lists Hemerocallis species as toxic to cats and associates ingestion with potentially severe kidney injury. Keep plants, cut flowers, fallen petals, and pollen away from cats and seek urgent veterinary advice after suspected exposure. Evidence for comparable toxicity in humans and dogs is not established at the same level.
- Typical season
- During flowering, typically June through August in much of the United States
- Pollination / pollen
- Insect-carried pollen; not typically wind-dispersed
Daylily pollen is primarily moved within flowers and between flowers by animal visitors rather than released as a prominent airborne cloud. The cultivar is fragrant and insect-visited, so a low airborne-allergy rating is reasonable, but sensitive individuals should still avoid direct contact if symptoms occur.
Native habitat
Hemerocallis hybrids are cultivated garden plants derived from Asian daylily species rather than plants of a single natural habitat. They adapt to sunny temperate gardens, fertile woodland-edge conditions, clay soils, and seasonal moisture, provided the root zone is not persistently waterlogged.
Interesting fact
The cultivar dates to 1967 and remains a widely recognized classic in daylily collections. Its flowers are often described as pale orchid pink with a glowing throat. Like other daylilies, each flower lasts for roughly one day, while many buds open successively on the same scape.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The most relevant questions about this plant, with short and direct answers.
🌱Quick care
What is Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' is a clump-forming perennial daylily cultivar with fragrant, pale lavender-pink to orchid-pink flowers and green or yellow-green throats. It is valued for reliable summer flowering, adaptable growth, and relatively low maintenance.
How much sun does Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' need?⌄
Grow Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' in full sun to partial shade. For the best flowering, provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight, although light afternoon shade can help in very hot climates.
How often should I water Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Water Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' moderately, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy while it establishes. Once established, it can tolerate short dry periods, but consistent moisture supports stronger growth and flowering.
How large does Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' get?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' typically grows about 24 to 30 inches tall and about 24 to 30 inches wide. Its arching foliage forms a dense clump, so allow roughly 2 to 2½ feet of garden space.
🌤️Environment and placement
What USDA hardiness zones are suitable for Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' is generally listed as hardy through USDA Zones 3 to 9, although exact performance depends on local exposure, drainage, and winter conditions. The supplied hardiness guidance indicates tolerance to about -10°F.
What type of soil is best for Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Plant Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' in fertile, moist but well-drained garden soil. It tolerates a range of soil textures, but improving poor soil with compost helps support vigorous clumping and repeat flowering.
Can Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' grow in partial shade?⌄
Yes, Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' can grow in partial shade, but it usually produces more flowers with greater sun exposure. Avoid dense shade, which can lead to fewer blooms and weaker, more open growth.
Is Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' drought tolerant?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' has some drought tolerance once established, but it performs best with moderate, consistent moisture. Water during prolonged summer heat or drought, especially when plants are newly planted or growing in sandy soil.
Is Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' suitable for containers?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' can be grown in a large container with drainage holes and fertile, well-drained potting mix. Choose a pot wide enough for the clump, water when the surface begins to dry, and protect the roots from severe winter cold.
💧Care and problems
How do I care for Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Provide sun to partial shade, moderate water, fertile well-drained soil, and occasional removal of spent flowers. A spring application of a balanced, slow-release perennial fertilizer can support growth, but excessive nitrogen may produce foliage at the expense of blooms.
Why is my Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' not blooming?⌄
The most common causes are insufficient sunlight, drought stress, excessive nitrogen, overcrowding, or a newly divided plant needing time to establish. Move or divide the plant only when practical, and avoid heavily shaded or waterlogged sites.
How often should I fertilize Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Fertilize Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' lightly in spring as new growth begins, using a balanced or lower-nitrogen perennial fertilizer. A second light application after the first flowering cycle may help rebloom, but rich feeding is usually unnecessary.
Does Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' need regular watering in summer?⌄
Yes, regular summer watering is helpful, particularly during heat, drought, or the first growing season. Deeply water the root zone when the upper few inches of soil begin to dry rather than making frequent shallow applications.
What pests and diseases affect Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
This cultivar is generally low maintenance, but daylilies can experience aphids, thrips, mites, slugs, crown rot, or leaf streak. Good drainage, adequate spacing, removal of damaged foliage, and avoiding overhead watering can reduce many problems.
Should I remove spent flowers from Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Yes, remove faded flowers and developing seedpods to keep the clump tidy and direct energy toward new blooms. Deadheading is especially useful for a repeat-blooming plant because it may support a cleaner, longer display.
🪴Planting and repotting
When is the best time to plant Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Plant Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' in early spring or fall when temperatures are moderate and the soil is workable. Spring planting allows a full establishment season, while fall planting should be completed several weeks before the ground freezes.
How deep should I plant Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Plant the crown of Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' so the point where the roots meet the foliage is level with the soil surface or only slightly below it. Planting too deeply can reduce vigor and flowering.
How far apart should I plant Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Space Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' about 24 to 30 inches apart, center to center. This allows the clumps to expand while maintaining airflow and enough room for the arching foliage to develop naturally.
Can Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' be planted near trees?⌄
It can be planted near trees if it receives sufficient light and does not have to compete heavily for moisture. Keep it away from dense tree roots when possible, and provide extra water during dry periods.
✂️Propagation and pruning
How do I propagate Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Propagate Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' primarily by dividing its clumps. Lift the plant, separate the crown into sections with roots and several fans of foliage, and replant the divisions promptly at the original depth.
When should I divide Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
Divide Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' in early spring or after flowering in late summer to early fall. Division is most useful when the clump is overcrowded, flowering declines, or more plants are needed.
Can Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' be grown from seed?⌄
It can be grown from seed, but seedlings will not reliably reproduce the named cultivar because daylily offspring vary genetically. Use division when you want new plants that retain the characteristic flower color, form, and habit of 'Catherine Woodbury'.
Should I cut back Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' in fall?⌄
Cut back the foliage after it yellows or is damaged by frost, rather than removing healthy green leaves too early. Removing dead foliage helps tidy the planting and reduces overwintering debris, while leaving some foliage temporarily supports the crown.
⚠️Toxicity and safety
Is Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' toxic to cats?⌄
Yes, Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' should be treated as toxic to cats because it is a Hemerocallis daylily. Ingestion can cause severe illness, including acute kidney injury, so keep cats away and contact a veterinarian immediately after suspected exposure.
Is Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' safe for dogs?⌄
Daylilies are generally listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA, but eating plant material can still cause stomach upset. Prevent pets from chewing garden plants and seek veterinary advice if a dog consumes a large amount or develops symptoms.
🌸Flowering and special interest
When does Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' bloom?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' generally blooms in mid to late summer, with timing varying by climate and growing conditions. In many U.S. gardens, flowering begins around June or July and may continue through August.
Is Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' fragrant?⌄
Yes, Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' is known for fragrant flowers. The large, soft lavender-pink blooms open for about one day, but established clumps can produce successive flowers over an extended summer display.
Does Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' rebloom?⌄
Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' is commonly described as a repeat or reblooming daylily. Rebloom is strongest when the plant receives adequate sunlight, moisture, and fertility, although performance can vary with climate and establishment.
What color are the flowers of Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury'?⌄
The flowers are generally pale lavender-pink, orchid-pink, or soft pink with a contrasting green to yellow-green throat. Color intensity can vary with temperature, sunlight, soil moisture, and the age of individual blooms.
How long does each flower of Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' last?⌄
Each individual flower usually lasts for about one day, which is typical of daylilies. The plant compensates by producing many buds that open sequentially, allowing the overall clump to remain in bloom for weeks.
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