Are lilies poisonous to cats?

Yes, all lilies of the genus Lilium and Hemerocallis (daylily) are extremely toxic to cats. Even small amounts of pollen or water from a lily vase can cause kidney failure and, in the worst case, death. Never keep lilies at home if you have a cat.

Lilies – symbolism, varieties and care tips

Q: How do you remove pollen from lilies?

Remove the stamens (the orange-yellow pollen caps) as soon as the lilies open. Use a tissue or gloves – the pollen stains clothes and furniture and is very hard to remove.

Few flowers can match the lily (Lilium) when it comes to drama and fragrance. With its magnificent flower heads and intense aroma, it dominates any room – and has a symbolism as rich as its history.

Classic lily – single flower in natural light — Classic lily

White lily – purity and elegance in a bouquet — White – purity

Red lily – passion and drama — Red – passion

Pink lily arranged in a home setting — Pink – admiration

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The lily's history and symbolism

For over 3,000 years, the lily has been cultivated, and it appears in art and religion from ancient Egypt to the Roman Empire. Within Christianity, the white lily (Madonna lily) is the symbol of the Virgin Mary's purity and innocence. In France, the lily became a royal emblem – fleur-de-lis – a stylised lily motif still used in heraldry.

What do the different colours mean?

White lily: Purity, innocence and holiness. Common at weddings and funerals.
Orange lily: Pride, confidence and passion.
Pink lily: Admiration and budding love.
Yellow lily: Joy, gratitude and the brightness of life.
Red lily: Love and enthusiasm.

Would you send flowers with lilies to someone special? Lilies are amongst the most popular choices for big occasions.

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Popular lily varieties

Oriental lily: Large, fragrant and spectacular – the classic favourites at the florist. Popular varieties are 'Stargazer' (pink/white) and 'Casa Blanca' (pure white).
Asiatic lily: Subtle fragrance, but intensely colourful. Hardier and with longer vase life. Popular cut flower.
LA-hybrid: Cross between Longiflorum and Asiatic lily. Large bloom, strong stem and good vase life.
Tiger lily (Lilium lancifolium): Orange-red with dark spots – wild and dramatic.

How to care for lilies in a vase

Cut the stems at an angle and remove the white lower part if visible.
Remove the stamens (the yellow-orange pollen tips) straight away – pollen leaves marks on clothes and furniture.
Change the water every other day – lilies are vulnerable to bacteria.
Place them in a cool spot away from direct sunlight.

Quick overview – lily vase life

Variety	Vase life
Oriental lily	7–10 days
Asiatic lily	up to 14 days
LA-hybrid	10–14 days

You can easily order flowers with lilies throughout Ireland. Also read our advice for caring to keep your bouquet fresh.

⚠️ Deadly poisonous to cats! All lilies of the genus Lilium and Hemerocallis (daylily) are extremely toxic to cats. Even small amounts of pollen, flowers, leaves or water from a lily vase can cause kidney failure and in the worst case death. Never keep lilies at home if you have a cat – choose a different flower instead.

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Frequently asked questions about lilies

Are lilies toxic to cats?

Yes, all lilies of the genus Lilium and Hemerocallis (daylily) are extremely toxic to cats. Even small amounts of pollen or water from the vase can cause kidney failure. Never have lilies at home if you have a cat.

How do you remove pollen from lilies?

Remove the stamens (the orange pollen caps) as soon as the lilies open. Use paper or gloves – the pollen leaves stains on clothes and furniture and is very difficult to remove.

How long do lilies last in a vase?

Oriental lilies last 7–10 days, while Asiatic lilies can last up to 14 days. Change the water every other day, cut the stems at an angle and place them in a cool location away from direct sunlight.