Eye Of The Beholder

Daylily "Bold Tiger" introduced in 1990 by Stamile.  It's 28 inches tall with a 4 1/4 inch mid season bloom.  Dormant.  Bright orange blooms with a bold red eye.  $20.

 

Daylily "Real Wind" introduced by Wild in 1977.  Receiving Honorable Mention in 1980, this dormant mid to late season bloomer stand 27 inches tall.  The light peach orange 6 1/2 inch blooms have a deep rose eye zone.  $10.

Daylily "Back Draft" was introduced by Dougherty in 1997.  A dormant mid to late season bloomer.  Standing on 27 inch scapes it has 6 inch brilliant orange blooms with a vivid red eye zone.  $50

If you are counting your pennies, here is an article that might show you some options.  Above are three beautiful daylilies (photos and available from Oakes Daylilies).  Although similar, each has their own particular appeal.  I'm not recommending one over the other.  Sooooo what's the point?

IF you have a limited budget and want the beautiful "Back Draft", you might be satisfied with either the $20 "Bold Tiger" or $10 "Real Wind".

SAME:

• All are dormant (and will do well in our area of the Midwest).
• They are all about the same height.
• They all combine orange blooms with large red eye zones.

DIFFERENCES:

• Two have 6 and 6 1/2 inch blooms while the other has 4 1/2 inch blooms.
• The forms are somewhat different.
• The exact colors may be different shades of orange and red.
• The cost of each.

Whether you think the differences are enough to justify the cost is up to you.  I suspect there are more distinct differences if we could see them side-by-side in the field.  As far as reliability, I've never (and I mean never) bought a plant from Oakes that wasn't healthy and just exactly what they advertise.

Sometimes you simply can't forget that more expensive flower and once bought, you never look back and never regret the purchase.  Other times you may be satisfied with the less expensive - you may even prefer the subtle differences.

In this particular set of flowers, I am the owner of "Real Winds".  Planted last year, I hope to see it in full bloom within the month and then I'll know if the more subtle colors of my purchase will satisfy my desire for this two-toned beauty.

This is one example for the daylily enthusiasts with limited funds or perhaps the thrifty gardener.  Even though there are new wowzer introductions every year, daylilies often have similar characteristics.  With a little shopping, you may find an acceptable substitute. It's in the eye of the beholder. 

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson