This comprehensive digital resource serves as a centralized repository of information pertaining to a specific genus of flowering plants. It contains details such as registration data, parentage, flower characteristics, and breeder information for numerous cultivars. The resource facilitates identification, research, and hybridization efforts within the plant community.
The significance of this curated collection lies in its ability to consolidate and disseminate knowledge, preventing duplication of names and offering a historical record of plant development. Its availability promotes informed decision-making for horticulturalists, researchers, and enthusiasts. It also serves as a vital tool in preserving the genetic diversity within the species.
Subsequent sections will delve into specific aspects of this database, including its structure, search capabilities, contribution guidelines, and usage within various research and horticultural applications. These explorations will further illustrate the functionality and benefits associated with this resource.
1. Registration Repository
At the heart of the digital archive lies the registration repository, a formal record-keeping system. Without this element, the digital archive would be a chaotic assembly of fragmented data, prone to duplication and inaccuracy. The registration process ensures that each new cultivar is uniquely identified, officially named, and accompanied by pertinent information such as parentage, breeder, and detailed description. This repository serves as the definitive source of truth, guarding against confusion and enabling clear communication within the community. A prime example of its utility can be seen in cases of naming conflicts. When two individuals independently develop similar daylilies, the repository determines precedence based on the date of registration, thus preventing disputes and safeguarding intellectual property.
The repository’s structured format allows for standardized data entry and retrieval. This is crucial for enabling advanced search functions and facilitating data analysis. For instance, researchers studying specific flower traits can query the database to identify cultivars that exhibit those characteristics, thereby accelerating the breeding process and leading to the development of superior plants. The registration repository also plays a vital role in preserving the historical record of daylily breeding. It offers a glimpse into the evolution of the species and acknowledges the contributions of countless breeders who have dedicated their lives to improving these flowering plants.
In essence, the registration repository is more than just a collection of data; it is the foundation upon which the entire digital archive is built. Its diligent management ensures accuracy, consistency, and accessibility, empowering breeders, researchers, and enthusiasts to explore the vast diversity of daylilies with confidence. Challenges remain in maintaining the repository’s integrity and encouraging widespread participation in the registration process. However, its indispensable role in the community solidifies its continued importance for years to come.
2. Cultivar Information
Within the digital embrace of the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database lies a heart, pumping lifeblood through the veins of the horticultural world. This heart is cultivar information: detailed profiles, painstakingly compiled, that bring each unique daylily variety into sharp focus. These profiles are the essential keys needed to unlock the secrets of the daylily world.
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Detailed Morphological Descriptions
Beyond a simple name, the database offers a comprehensive portrayal. Imagine seeking a daylily with ruffled edges of a specific shade. Here, precise descriptions of petal form, color nuances (often using RHS color codes), plant height, bloom size, and season appear. These descriptions move beyond subjective impressions, offering objective data for both identification and breeding. A breeder seeking a specific trait, for example, might search for daylilies with reblooming habits coupled with large flower size. The database offers this information.
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Origin and Registration Details
Each cultivar entry carries the mark of its genesis: the name of its creator, the date of registration, and any awards it has received. This information establishes a lineage, recognizing the contributions of breeders and safeguarding against duplication. For the serious collector, knowing the history and pedigree of a plant adds another layer of appreciation. It highlights the heritage of the flower as well as acknowledges the work of the hybridizer.
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Photographic Records
A picture is worth a thousand words, a sentiment echoed in the inclusion of photographic records. Visual documentation complements written descriptions, revealing the subtle beauty of a daylily cultivar. Photographs capture the play of light and shadow on petals, the delicate texture of the foliage, aspects not fully conveyed through text alone. They act as confirmation in the identification process, bridging the gap between data and direct observation.
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Performance Notes and Hybridizing Information
Beyond basic characteristics, the database sometimes incorporates performance notes based on observations in various growing conditions. These insights, although not always universally applicable, provide valuable guidance. In addition, information about the plant’s fertility (pod and pollen) and its success as a parent plant is key. This guides breeders in making informed decisions for future hybridizations, building upon the successes of the past.
Consider the lone researcher, tracing the ancestry of a newly discovered daylily. Without the detailed cultivar information within the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database, this task would be near impossible. With the information at hand, both the researcher and the casual gardener gain a portal to this vibrant world.
3. Parentage Data
Within the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database, parentage data represents a lineage, a carefully documented family tree for each registered cultivar. Its the horticultural equivalent of genealogical research, tracing back generations to reveal the genetic heritage of a plant. Without this meticulously recorded information, the database would be a mere catalog of names and characteristics, lacking the depth and interconnectedness that makes it an invaluable resource. The presence of parentage data allows breeders to understand the genetic contributions of specific plants, fostering informed decisions about future hybridization efforts.
Consider a hybridizer aiming to create a daylily with improved disease resistance. By examining the parentage data of existing cultivars known for their resilience, the hybridizer can identify plants with a high likelihood of transmitting that trait to their offspring. This targeted approach drastically increases the chances of success compared to random cross-pollination. The database allows users to search for specific parent plants and analyze the traits of their descendants, facilitating the identification of promising genetic combinations. For instance, the widespread use of ‘Stella de Oro’ as a parent can be easily tracked, revealing its impact on various traits in subsequent generations. Moreover, the data allows researchers to identify instances where certain parent combinations consistently produce desirable or undesirable results, further refining the breeding process.
The significance of parentage data extends beyond practical breeding applications. It also contributes to the preservation of horticultural history. By documenting the origins of each cultivar, the database honors the breeders who dedicated their time and expertise to creating new and improved daylilies. Challenges remain in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of parentage records, as relying on self-reported information can introduce errors. Nevertheless, the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database strives to maintain the integrity of its parentage data, recognizing its fundamental role in advancing the understanding and appreciation of daylilies.
4. Flower characteristics
Within the architecture of the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database, flower characteristics represent a cornerstone. These traits define the unique identity of each cultivar, acting as digital fingerprints that distinguish one variety from thousands of others. Their accurate and consistent recording is essential to the database’s utility for breeders, researchers, and enthusiasts.
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Color: A Spectrum Encoded
Color description transcends simple labels like “red” or “yellow.” The database employs RHS Colour Charts, providing a standardized method to precisely define shades. Imagine a breeder searching for a daylily with petals matching a specific sunset hue. The RHS code allows for targeted searches, eliminating ambiguity. This rigor avoids the pitfalls of subjective color perception, ensuring accurate identification and enabling data-driven breeding decisions.
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Form: Sculptural Variations Cataloged
Daylily flowers exhibit a breathtaking range of forms, from the classic trumpet shape to spider-like petals and intricately ruffled edges. The database meticulously documents these variations, using standardized terminology to categorize petal shape, recurve, and substance. Breeders searching for specific forms can efficiently identify potential parent plants. Moreover, documenting these forms over time allows researchers to study evolutionary trends within the species.
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Size: Dimensions Defined
Flower size, measured in inches or millimeters, represents a key characteristic impacting aesthetic appeal and breeding potential. The database records this dimension precisely, allowing users to filter and sort cultivars based on their size. This information is invaluable for gardeners selecting plants for specific landscape applications, as well as breeders seeking to enhance or diminish flower size in their hybrids.
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Bloom Season: Timing Documented
The timing of bloom, described by season (Early, Mid, Late, Very Late, Reblooming), is critical for planning continuous floral displays in gardens. The database meticulously tracks this trait, allowing users to select daylilies with staggered bloom times, maximizing the flowering period. This data also benefits researchers studying the effects of climate change on plant phenology.
These categorized flower characteristics, diligently stored and searchable within the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database, empower users with knowledge. They transform the database from a simple list into a dynamic tool, enabling scientific inquiry, informed horticultural choices, and the continued evolution of this beloved flower.
5. Breeder History
The American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database isn’t merely a repository of plant traits; it is a living testament to human endeavor. Encoded within its digital architecture are the stories of the breeders, the individuals whose vision, dedication, and skill have shaped the modern daylily. Breeder history, therefore, forms an integral, often overlooked, component of the database’s enduring value.
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Preservation of Intellectual Legacy
The database serves as a permanent archive of breeder contributions, ensuring their work is recognized and remembered. Each cultivar record bears the breeder’s name, preventing their achievements from fading into obscurity. Consider the legacy of Dr. George M. Darrow, a pioneer in daylily hybridization. Without the database, his contributions might be known only to a select few. Instead, his name is inextricably linked to the cultivars he created, ensuring his place in horticultural history. This record also prevents accidental re-naming or misattribution of cultivars, safeguarding intellectual property.
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Tracing the Evolution of Breeding Techniques
By studying the breeder history associated with specific cultivars, researchers can trace the evolution of breeding techniques and identify influential figures who advanced the field. Analyzing the parentage data of cultivars bred by a particular individual reveals their preferred methods and the genetic lines they favored. For example, a researcher might examine the work of a breeder known for developing disease-resistant cultivars to identify the genetic sources of that resistance. This information can be used to inform future breeding efforts, building upon past successes and avoiding past failures.
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Understanding Regional Breeding Styles
Breeder history can reveal regional variations in breeding styles and preferences. Breeders working in different climates or geographical regions often focus on different traits, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities presented by their environments. For example, breeders in colder climates might prioritize winter hardiness, while those in warmer climates might focus on heat tolerance. Analyzing the breeder history associated with cultivars from different regions reveals these distinct breeding priorities, contributing to a deeper understanding of the adaptability and diversity of daylilies.
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Inspiring Future Generations
The stories of past and present daylily breeders serve as an inspiration to aspiring hybridizers. Learning about the challenges and triumphs of these individuals can ignite a passion for plant breeding and encourage new generations to contribute to the ongoing evolution of daylilies. The database allows individuals to research the backgrounds of successful breeders, learn about their techniques, and connect with the community. This fosters a sense of continuity and encourages the exchange of knowledge, ensuring the future of daylily breeding.
Breeder history, as embedded within the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database, transforms the data into narrative. It elevates the record from a mere list of plants into an interconnected web of human innovation and horticultural artistry. Preserving this history not only honors those who came before, but provides invaluable insights for those who will continue to shape the future of the daylily.
6. Hybridization Records
Within the digital walls of the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database lies a chronicle of botanical artistry: the hybridization records. These records, often terse entries detailing parentage and bloom characteristics, represent the culmination of patient labor, inspired guesses, and years-long observation. They document the deliberate crossing of distinct daylily cultivars, a process akin to an author crafting a story, each cross a sentence, each new cultivar a finished chapter. Without these records, the database, while still a valuable resource, would lack context, a library of books with missing title pages and author attributions. Imagine a researcher seeking to understand the genetic basis of a particular color pattern. The hybridization records provide the critical genealogical information, tracing that color pattern back through generations, revealing the specific crosses that led to its emergence. Consider the creation of spider daylilies; early breeders painstakingly documented their crosses, enabling future hybridizers to refine the spider form and create the diverse range seen today. These records are not merely historical footnotes; they are active blueprints guiding future botanical innovation.
The practical applications of meticulously maintained hybridization records extend beyond the individual breeder’s bench. They inform large-scale research projects aimed at mapping the daylily genome, identifying genes responsible for desirable traits. By correlating specific genetic markers with observed characteristics documented in the records, scientists can accelerate the breeding process, developing cultivars with enhanced disease resistance, improved bloom quality, or novel color combinations. Moreover, these records contribute to the conservation of genetic diversity within the species. By analyzing patterns of hybridization, breeders can avoid inadvertently creating genetic bottlenecks, ensuring the long-term health and adaptability of daylilies. Consider the efforts to reintroduce lost traits or strengthen weakened genetic lines; hybridization records provide the essential roadmap, guiding breeders towards compatible cultivars that can restore vitality.
In conclusion, the hybridization records within the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database constitute more than just data entries. They are narratives of botanical creation, testaments to human ingenuity, and practical tools for advancing the science and art of daylily breeding. Challenges exist in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of these records, as reliance on meticulous breeder documentation is paramount. Nevertheless, their continued maintenance and accessibility are essential for preserving the horticultural heritage of daylilies and fostering continued innovation in the field. The future of daylily breeding is inextricably linked to the past, and the hybridization records provide the vital connection, illuminating the path forward.
7. Search Functionality
The vastness of the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database would render it virtually unusable without robust search functionality. Imagine a library containing millions of books, but lacking a card catalog or digital index. Such a collection, despite its potential value, would be inaccessible, its treasures buried beneath layers of unorganized information. The search capabilities are the key that unlocks the database’s potential, transforming a static archive into a dynamic tool for discovery and analysis. Without this element, the painstakingly collected data would remain largely untapped, its benefits unrealized.
Consider the case of a breeder seeking to create a daylily with specific traits: perhaps a particular shade of purple, a certain petal form, and a reblooming habit. Without efficient search tools, this task would involve manually sifting through thousands of entries, a process both time-consuming and prone to error. The search functionality allows the breeder to specify these desired characteristics as search criteria, instantly narrowing the field to a manageable subset of cultivars that possess those traits. Similarly, a researcher studying the genetic basis of disease resistance could use the search tools to identify cultivars known for their resilience and trace their lineage, providing valuable insights into the genes responsible for this characteristic. The ability to filter and sort results based on multiple criteria empowers users to extract precisely the information they need, saving time and accelerating the pace of discovery. Imagine a novice gardener wanting to plant a daylily garden that blooms from early spring to late fall. The database helps to find what you are looking for.
The effectiveness of the search functionality hinges on the quality and consistency of the data within the database. Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to misleading search results, undermining the tool’s reliability. Therefore, ongoing efforts to maintain data integrity and improve the search algorithms are crucial for ensuring its continued utility. The search capabilities of the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database are not merely a convenience; they are an essential component that transforms a massive collection of data into a powerful engine for horticultural innovation and exploration. As the database grows and evolves, the search functionality must continue to adapt and improve, enabling users to navigate its ever-expanding landscape and unlock its full potential.
8. Contribution Guidelines
The American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database stands as a monument to collective effort, a digital garden cultivated by countless hands. Yet, the verdancy of this resource depends not solely on existing data but on the continued influx of accurate, reliable information. It is here that contribution guidelines become paramount, shaping the very landscape of the database and dictating its ongoing vitality.
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Data Standardization: A Foundation of Clarity
Imagine a library where each book followed its own unique cataloging system. Chaos would reign. Similarly, the database demands adherence to specific data formats for cultivar descriptions, parentage details, and flower characteristics. These standards, clearly outlined in the contribution guidelines, ensure consistency and facilitate accurate searches. A seemingly minor deviation using inches instead of centimeters for bloom size, for instance can disrupt search functionality and undermine the database’s utility. The guidelines, therefore, act as a safeguard against entropy, preserving the clarity and coherence of the data.
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Verification Protocols: Guarding Against Errors
Information, no matter how well-intentioned, is susceptible to error. The contribution guidelines, recognizing this inherent fallibility, establish verification protocols to ensure data accuracy. Before a new cultivar is added to the database, its registration information is typically cross-referenced with official records. Claims of unique traits, such as exceptional disease resistance, may require supporting evidence. These protocols, while potentially adding a layer of complexity to the contribution process, are essential for maintaining the database’s credibility and preventing the dissemination of misinformation.
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Image Standards: Visual Representation with Fidelity
A picture, as the saying goes, is worth a thousand words. In the context of the daylily database, images serve as invaluable supplements to written descriptions. The contribution guidelines, therefore, specify requirements for image quality, resolution, and content. Blurry, poorly lit photographs can obscure important details and hinder identification. Guidelines address aspects such as appropriate background and lighting, ensuring that submitted images accurately represent the cultivar’s true characteristics. These visual standards enhance the database’s appeal and improve its overall usability.
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Ethical Considerations: Respecting Intellectual Property
The creation of a new daylily cultivar represents a significant investment of time, resources, and expertise. The contribution guidelines recognize and respect the intellectual property rights of breeders. Submissions must accurately credit the originator of each cultivar and avoid any infringement of existing patents or trademarks. The database serves not only as a repository of information but also as a platform for acknowledging the contributions of the individuals who have shaped the modern daylily. Adherence to ethical guidelines fosters trust and encourages continued participation in the database’s growth.
These facets of the contribution guidelines, interwoven and interdependent, form a framework for responsible data stewardship. They ensure that the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database remains a reliable, accurate, and comprehensive resource for breeders, researchers, and enthusiasts alike. The ongoing success of this digital garden hinges on the continued commitment of contributors to uphold these standards, cultivating a landscape of knowledge that benefits the entire daylily community.
9. Genetic diversity
The story of the modern daylily is, in essence, a tale of curated genetic diversity. Before the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database existed, much of this crucial information resided in scattered notebooks, individual memories, and private gardens. The database, therefore, acts as a vital conservation tool, compiling and organizing data about countless cultivars, each representing a unique genetic expression. A consequence of this consolidation is the facilitated identification of underrepresented genetic lines. Breeders, for instance, can use the database to locate cultivars that exhibit traits absent or rare in modern hybrids, providing opportunities to reintroduce valuable genetic material and broaden the genetic base.
The database’s emphasis on parentage data is particularly crucial in this regard. By meticulously documenting the lineage of each cultivar, it allows breeders to track the transmission of specific genes and identify potential bottlenecks in the gene pool. Consider the widespread use of a few popular cultivars as parents; while these plants have contributed desirable traits, over-reliance on them can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity, making the overall population more vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes. The database enables breeders to visualize these trends and make informed decisions about selecting diverse parent plants, mitigating the risks associated with genetic uniformity. A practical example is the effort to breed daylilies with resistance to rust, a common fungal disease. By using the database to identify cultivars with documented resistance traits from diverse genetic backgrounds, breeders can create hybrids with a more robust and sustainable defense against the pathogen.
In summation, the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database serves as a bulwark against genetic erosion in the daylily world. Its comprehensive documentation allows for the identification, preservation, and utilization of diverse genetic resources. Challenges remain in ensuring the continued accuracy and completeness of the data, particularly as new cultivars are introduced. However, its pivotal role in promoting genetic diversity underscores its importance not just as a repository of information, but as a catalyst for a more resilient and vibrant future for this beloved flower.
Frequently Asked Questions
These questions, arising from years of engagement with the resource, represent the most common inquiries encountered by those seeking to navigate and utilize its wealth of information. The answers offered aim to provide clarity and guidance, ensuring a more fruitful exploration of the database.
Question 1: What precisely is the scope of information contained within the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database?
The database catalogues registered daylily cultivars. It includes details of their origin, parentage, flower characteristics (color, size, form), breeder information, and, in many cases, images. Think of it as a detailed family tree and physical description, meticulously recorded for thousands of distinct daylilies.
Question 2: How does the database differentiate between cultivars with similar names or characteristics?
The registration process is key. Each registered cultivar receives a unique designation, preventing duplication. Further, the detailed description of characteristics, including the standardized RHS Colour Chart codes, allows for finer distinctions than simply relying on names or visual impressions. Parentage data offers an additional layer of differentiation, tracing back the lineage of each cultivar.
Question 3: Why is accurate parentage data so crucial, and what measures are in place to ensure its reliability?
Accurate parentage data is vital for understanding the genetic heritage of a cultivar, predicting the traits of its offspring, and avoiding inadvertent inbreeding. While the database relies largely on breeder-submitted information, the registration process often involves cross-referencing with existing records and, in some cases, requiring supporting documentation. However, it is acknowledged that errors can occur, emphasizing the need for vigilant record-keeping.
Question 4: How can I contribute to the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database, and what standards must I adhere to?
Contributions are welcome, and guidelines are available on the American Hemerocallis Society website. These guidelines emphasize data standardization (using approved terminology and formats), verification protocols (ensuring accuracy), image standards (providing clear, representative photographs), and ethical considerations (respecting intellectual property rights). The goal is to maintain the database’s integrity and reliability.
Question 5: Are the images included in the database representative of the cultivar’s appearance under all growing conditions?
Images provide a valuable visual reference, but it is important to remember that a daylily’s appearance can vary depending on environmental factors such as climate, soil, and sunlight. The database aims to include images that accurately represent the cultivar’s typical characteristics, but variations can occur. Reading the description alongside the image is always recommended.
Question 6: How often is the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database updated, and how can I stay informed about new additions or changes?
The database is updated periodically, reflecting new registrations and corrections to existing records. The American Hemerocallis Society website and related publications are the best sources of information about updates. Regular engagement with these resources ensures access to the latest information.
The key takeaway is simple: The American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database is a dynamic, evolving resource, enriched by contributions and refined by ongoing efforts to maintain its accuracy and accessibility.
The next section will explore common pitfalls encountered while utilizing the database and provide strategies for avoiding these challenges.
Navigating the Labyrinth
The digital repository of daylily information is a vast landscape. Like any journey through unfamiliar territory, certain precautions enhance the chance of a successful and rewarding exploration. Here are a few hard-won lessons.
Tip 1: Embrace the Power of Precision. Simple keyword searches often yield overwhelming results. When seeking a specific cultivar or trait, utilize advanced search filters. Narrow the parameters by RHS color code, bloom season, or even specific breeders. Vague queries invite ambiguity; targeted searches reveal hidden gems.
Tip 2: Verify, Verify, Verify. Information within the database, while generally reliable, is subject to human error. Cross-reference critical data, such as parentage or registration details, with multiple sources whenever possible. A single misplaced digit in a registration number can lead down a false path. Scrutiny is the price of accuracy.
Tip 3: Don’t Neglect the Image Gallery. While detailed descriptions are valuable, visual confirmation is crucial. Compare images from various sources to account for variations in lighting and growing conditions. A photograph can reveal subtle nuances of color and form often missed in written descriptions.
Tip 4: Heed the Breeder’s Insights. The database often includes notes from the breeder regarding a cultivar’s performance or unique characteristics. These insights, born from years of direct observation, can provide invaluable guidance when making breeding decisions or selecting plants for specific environments.
Tip 5: Respect the Data’s Limitations. The database primarily reflects registered cultivars. Countless unregistered seedlings, potential treasures in their own right, remain absent. Therefore, recognize the database as a valuable tool, but not the definitive authority on all daylily genetics.
Tip 6: Become a Contributor, Not Just a Consumer. If possessing accurate information about unregistered cultivars or corrections to existing data, consider contributing to the database. Its value depends on the collective efforts of the daylily community. Share the knowledge.
The American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database is a powerful tool. Mastering the intricacies of its search functions, data verification, and interpretational nuances transforms a potential source of frustration into a garden of knowledge. Those who approach this data with thoughtfulness and discernment will reap the richest rewards.
The subsequent discussion will provide a glimpse into the future of daylily research, focusing on how the American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database continues to shape and inform scientific inquiry.
American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database
This exploration has traversed the landscape of the digital resource, illuminating its multifaceted nature. From registration records and cultivar details to parentage lineages and breeder histories, the comprehensive nature of its data store was revealed. The database emerged not merely as a collection of facts, but as a living chronicle, meticulously documenting the evolution and diversity of a beloved flower.
The story continues, with each new cultivar registered, each updated image uploaded, and each insightful contribution added. The American Hemerocallis Society Daylily Database invites participation in this ongoing narrative. Preserve this botanical heritage, contribute to its ever-expanding knowledge base, and ensure that this legacy of floral beauty continues to bloom for generations to come.
