'L. medeoloides' (Lilium)

Known as "Kuruma-Yuri" in its native Japan, legend holds that this alpine species which grows in volcanic soils is the favorite flower of the ÔGoddess of Mount FujiŐ. Often a difficult garden subject, the waxy orange, black spotted flowers of Lilium medeoloides are only about 1-1/2 inches in diameter. A planting site rich in leaf-mold on top of gravel with winter protection and semi-shaded conditions are a must to successfully grow it.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Fritz Ewald believed to be of wild plant photo taken by Moto Shimizu. Notice the bamboo leaves in the foreground.