Adaptations of the Daylily

Root System

• One of the most important adaptations of the daylily is its extensive root system. Fleshy, fibrous roots are formed in clumps, allowing daylilies to survive drought conditions by storing water. Although the number and size of blooms, plant growth and overall vigor can be adversely affected by prolonged drought, daylily roots allow the plant to survive, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension website. Roots are so durable that daylily plants are commonly sold as roots with foliage removed.

Soil

• The University of Georgia Extension Service reports that daylilies are adapted to grow in a variety of soils ranging from light, sandy soils to heavy clays, and recommends tilling the soil to relieve compaction and underlying hardpans before planting daylilies. Daylilies are used for erosion control, especially on banks, because the adaptive structure of their roots helps hold soil in place. When other plants wash downhill on slopes and die because they lack tenacious root systems, daylily survival is secure regardless of the soil type and slope grade.

Light

• Daylilies will grow in full sun, filtered sun, partial shade, or variable light during the day. The Alabama Cooperative Systems says that although daylilies are adaptable to growing in low light, they will produce fewer flowers. Daylily plants will continue to grow even in heavy shade, after flowering ceases. Plants with darker flowers are more adapted to growing in partial shade, and plants with pastel flowers are more adapted to growing in full sun.

Flowers

• Adaptation of any flowering plant is influenced by its flowers because attracting pollinators ensures species survival. Daylilies come in a vast palette of flower colors, sizes, shapes and patterns to lure pollinators. The Washington State University Extension describes the bulls-eye pattern on some daylily flowers as flower petals arranged around a contrasting center color; for example, flowers with yellow centers and dark petals. This pattern makes the flower more conspicuous to pollinators flying overhead and gives the insects a target to shoot for.