From a botanical and horticultural perspective, daylilies (plants of the genus Hemerocallis) are decidedly not deer resistant. They are, in fact, a preferred and palatable food source for deer in many regions. While no plant is ever completely "deer-proof," plants are often categorized on a scale of resistance based on their physical and chemical characteristics. Daylilies rank very low on this resistance scale, making them vulnerable to browsing damage.
Deer are browsing animals attracted to plants with soft, succulent, non-woody growth. The daylily fits this description perfectly. Its leaves are long, strap-like, and tender, containing a high moisture content that is appealing to thirsty deer, especially in dry periods. The flower scapes (stalks) are also soft and easy to consume. Most notably, the flower buds themselves are a particular delicacy; deer will often selectively eat the fat, nutrient-rich buds just before they open, denying the gardener the bloom display entirely. The plant's overall structure lacks any significant thorns, prickles, or tough, fibrous textures that would deter feeding.
Many plants that are considered deer resistant have evolved defensive mechanisms that make them unpalatable. These include strong aromatic oils (found in herbs like lavender and sage), bitter alkaloids, or milky, irritating sap (found in plants like milkweed). Daylilies lack these potent chemical defenses. They do not produce strong odors offensive to a deer's sensitive nose, and their taste is not bitter or acrid. From a chemical standpoint, the daylily plant tissue offers a mild, sweet, and nutritious meal without any negative consequences for the deer, encouraging repeat visits.
During the growing season, daylilies are a lush source of water and nutrients. Deer are opportunistic feeders, and a garden filled with daylilies represents a concentrated, reliable food plot. The plants are most vulnerable in early spring when the fresh, new shoots first emerge from the ground. This tender new growth is highly attractive after a sparse winter. The vulnerability continues throughout the summer as the flower scapes rise and buds form, offering a high-calorie reward. Even after blooming, the remaining foliage often remains a target until it is killed back by frost.
The degree of damage to daylilies is highly dependent on local deer population pressure and the availability of alternative native food sources. In areas with high deer density or during times of drought or food scarcity, daylilies will be heavily browsed and can be completely eradicated from a garden. In regions with smaller deer populations and abundant natural forage, daylilies may occasionally be nibbled but not destroyed. However, it is a horticultural certainty that if deer frequent an area, they will eat daylilies when given the opportunity.
