Citron daylily and long yellow daylily (Hemerocallis citrina) care guide

Hemerocallis citrina is commonly called citron daylily and long yellow daylily. It is a herbaceous perennial daylily valued for fragrant lemon-yellow flowers.

Citron daylily grows best in full sun to partial shade. More sun generally supports stronger flowering, while some afternoon shade can help in hot climates.

Water Hemerocallis citrina moderately, keeping the soil evenly moist while it establishes. Once established, it tolerates short dry periods but performs best without prolonged drought.

Yes, Hemerocallis citrina is a long-lived herbaceous perennial. Its foliage may die back or decline in winter depending on climate, then regrow in spring.

Established citron daylily is hardy to about -30°F, approximately USDA Zones 4 through 9. Winter survival still depends on drainage, snow cover, exposure, and the plant’s establishment.

Hemerocallis citrina prefers average, well-drained garden soil. It adapts to many soil types, but constantly wet conditions can damage the crown and roots.

Yes, citron daylily can grow in partial shade. It usually flowers more heavily with several hours of direct sun, especially in cooler regions.

Allow roughly 18 to 24 inches of space between Hemerocallis citrina plants. Mature clumps commonly reach about 3 to 4 feet tall and 1.5 to 2 feet wide.

Yes, citron daylily can grow in a large container with drainage holes and average-quality potting mix. Choose a container wide and deep enough for the expanding crown, and water more consistently than plants in the ground.

Keep the soil moderately moist, remove weeds, and apply a light mulch without covering the crown. Established plants are generally low-maintenance and usually need little supplemental fertilizer.

Hemerocallis citrina usually grows well without heavy feeding. If growth is weak, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring according to the product label.

Brown leaves can result from drought, excessive heat, winter damage, or normal seasonal dieback. Check soil moisture and drainage, and remove only foliage that is clearly dead or diseased.

Hemerocallis citrina is generally trouble-free but can be affected by aphids, thrips, slugs, snails, gall midge, rust, or crown and root rot. Good air circulation, sanitation, and well-drained soil reduce many problems.

Yes, remove spent flowers regularly to keep citron daylily tidy and prevent energy from going into unwanted seed production. This is optional if you want to collect seed.

Citron daylilies generally do not need staking because their flower scapes are usually upright and sturdy. Plants in unusually exposed or fertile conditions may occasionally benefit from support.

The best planting times are spring and early fall, while temperatures are moderate and roots can establish. In colder areas, plant at least several weeks before the ground freezes.

Plant the crown so the junction between the roots and leaves is level with or just slightly below the soil surface. Firm the soil, water thoroughly, and keep the plant evenly moist while it establishes.

Hemerocallis citrina does not perform well in persistently waterlogged soil. Improve drainage or plant it in a raised location because saturated crowns are more vulnerable to rot.

Lift an established clump in early spring or fall, separate it into sections with healthy roots and several fans, and replant the divisions promptly. Division is the easiest way to produce plants true to the parent.

Divide citron daylily when the clump becomes crowded or flowering declines, commonly every 3 to 4 years. Plants can be divided sooner if they are outgrowing their space.

Yes, Hemerocallis citrina can be grown from seed sown in containers in fall or spring. Seed-grown plants may vary from the parent and usually take longer to flower than divisions.

Remove flower scapes after blooming and cut back dead or badly damaged foliage in late fall or early spring. Avoid cutting healthy green leaves prematurely because they help replenish the crown.

Yes, Hemerocallis citrina is highly toxic to cats, and any part—including leaves, flowers, pollen, stems, and roots—can cause a life-threatening emergency. Keep it away from cats and contact a veterinarian immediately after suspected ingestion.

Citron daylily is not generally considered toxic to dogs, although eating plant material can still cause stomach upset. Prevent pets from consuming large amounts and seek veterinary advice if symptoms develop.

Flower buds of Hemerocallis citrina are used as food in parts of East Asia, including as dried “golden needles.” Only eat plants that have been positively identified and grown without pesticides, because toxicity and edibility should not be assumed for look-alikes or unidentified daylilies.

Hemerocallis citrina typically blooms in June and July in temperate U.S. gardens. The exact season varies with climate, planting location, and establishment.

Yes, citron daylily flowers are notably fragrant. They are also nocturnal, commonly opening near sunset and closing the following morning.

Citron daylily is a nocturnal-blooming species adapted to opening in the evening and lasting into the next morning. This flowering pattern distinguishes it from many daylily cultivars that open primarily during daylight.

Each Hemerocallis citrina flower generally lasts for about one day. A mature plant produces multiple buds, so the overall flowering display continues for much longer.