For over a quarter of a century, wherever daylilies (Hemerocallus spp.) grow, you will find the very popular gold-flowered ‘Stella d’Oro’ daylily (USDA hardiness zones 2-9). It’s one of a few daylilies that blooms 3 out of 4 seasons. Its small size makes it an ideal choice as a ground cover.

This short clump growing daylily grows 10 to 15 inches tall and 15 to 18 inches spread with grass-like foliage. Blooms measure 3-inches across. Multiple uses include in rock gardens, front of beds or as edging, or planted in a container. Several plants grouped together make them stand out.

Stella d’Oro grows in an average soil that is adequately drained. Good loamy soil is preferred. Full to partial sun (6 hours minimum) is ideal for maximum flowering. Purchase daylily divisions that have 2 to 3 fans and spaced them 18 inches apart. Cut foliage back to 6 to 8 inches.

Every 5-6 years daylily clumps should be dug up and divided. Early fall is the best time to divide daylilies. Late winter is also a good replanting time. Mulching fall planted beds reduces problems with frost heaving and offers some winter protection.

Don’t allow daylilies to become overcrowded by surrounding shrubs, perennials, and weeds. Plants are highly disease and pest resistant. Stella d’Oro is moderately susceptible to daylily rust, a more serious problem in the southern U.S. Rabbits don’t bother daylilies.

Feed all daylilies in early spring with a slow release fertilizer such as Osmocote 14-14-14, Nutricote 13-13-13, or equivalent products. For reblooming varieties like Stella d’Oro, should be fed a second time in early July with a water soluble fertilizer such as MiracleGro™, Schultz™, Nature’s Source™, or Daniels™. Do not allow them to suffer through a summer drought.

Stella d’Oro has earned the Stout Medal, the American Hemerocallus Society’s highest award.