Sprekelia formosissima

Also Known As

Aztec Lily
Jacobean Lily

Plant type

perennial, bulb / corm / tuber

size

H: 12"-18"
W: 6"-12"

planting zones

7b-10b

More Options

Sprekelia formosissima plant details

Sprekelia formosissima is a broadleaf deciduous perennial bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In fall, spring and summer red flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Sprekelia formosissima

Plant type: perennial bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: amaryllidaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 6 IN - 12 IN - wide, 12 IN - 18 IN - tall
Flowers: red blooms in fall, spring and summer
Uses: clumping, container plant, cutting garden, rock garden, summer dormant, tropical-looking, unique

GROWING CONDITIONS for Sprekelia formosissima

USDA Zones: 7b - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Sprekelia formosissima has bold scarlet flowers with gracefully arching petals that resemble an amaryllis crossed with shiny ribbon. The five inch wide blooms occur in spring (often reblooming in fall) atop strap-like, green foliage and look best when crowded in a clump in a protected spot or when grown in pots. Native to Mexico, Aztec Lilies love heat. They prefer alkaline soil and will overwinter best when kept dry. Photo: Wikipedia.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

This plant falls squarely into the realm of "weird plants" with its unusual bright red flowers that look like cartoon faces. These member of the amaryllis family display the same strappy foliage and preference for warm settings. Why Grow Aztec Lilies? Aztec Lilies can be grown in a pot indoors in a sunny window Blooms in spring or summer; timing varies by region and year to year Not on the favorite foods lists for deer and rabbits These plants are native to Mexico and Central America, where they bloom best when clumped and crowded. No need to dig and divide often.