I recently visited Longwood Gardens with members of the DC Flower Safari. We went to see the annual Orchid Extravaganza exhibit. The orchids were wonderful (and yes, I’ll probably be posting my orchid photos soon) – they weren’t the only flowers in bloom. My favorites were actually the lilies. I photographed three varieties of lilies on this trip – one (After Eight) I’ve photographed in the past – and two that were new to me (Lilytopia and Tonis). I hope you enjoy my photos of the wonderful lilies I found at Longwood Gardens in early February.

After Eight has always been one of my favorite lilies – I just love the bright shades of pink in this amazing flower.

© 2012 Patty Hankins

© 2012 Patty Hankins

Lilytopia is a double-flowered lily. I think this is the first of the double-flowered lilies I have photographed. I really like the look of these lilies – and will be keeping my eye for more of them to photograph

© 2012 Patty Hankins

Center of the lilytopia lily

© 2012 Patty Hankins

I actually like the photo of the center of the lily better in black and white – to me – it better shows the incredible structure of the flower

© 2012 Patty Hankins

Petals of the lilytopia lily

© 2012 Patty Hankins

And finally the Tonis lily – a striking white flower with splashes of red, orange and yellow

© 2012 Patty Hankins

© 2012 Patty Hankins

© 2012 Patty Hankins