Did You Know? The Story Behind the Humboldt Lily!

As our campaign to make the Humboldt Lily (Lilium humboldtii) the official municipal flower of Long Beach grows, I wanted to share a few incredible facts about this iconic native plant—including how it got its name!

History & Discovery

The Pioneer Explorer Connection: The flower was named in honor of Alexander von Humboldt (1769–1859), the legendary German naturalist, geographer, and explorer. He was one of the first scientists to advocate for environmental preservation and ecosystem interconnectedness.

Botanical Naming: The plant was formally classified in the 19th century by botanists Benedict Roezl and Max Leichtlin, who dedicated the discovery to Humboldt's lasting legacy in natural science.

Fast Facts About Long Beach's Potential City Flower:

A True California Native: Native to Southern California, this lily thrives in local chaparral and oak woodland environments, perfectly matching our coastal Mediterranean climate.

Towering Beauty: The Humboldt Lily can grow up to 6 to 8 feet tall, producing up to 30 vibrant, golden-orange flowers with deep maroon spots.

Built for Conservation: Unlike imported garden flowers, it is summer-deciduous and drought-tolerant. Once established, it survives naturally on seasonal rainfall without requiring municipal irrigation.

Pollinator Powerhouse: Its massive, recurved blooms attract local pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees, supporting local biodiversity.

Adopting a flower with deep ecological benefits and a rich history in natural science fits Long Beach’s vision for a sustainable future.

Thank you to everyone who has signed and shared so far! Please keep spreading the word so we can present this initiative to the City Council!