This Sprekelia is one of my favorite plants. It's also known as an Aztec Lily or Jacobean Lily (Sprekelia formosissima).But it's not really a lily at all.
Sprekelia is a small genus of only two species in the Amaryllidaceae family from Mexico. So, it's more like an Amaryllis.
Mine are about 16 inches tall and grow very well in dappled shade with some afternoon sun. They take a normal amount of water (whatever's normal for Central Texas!) I do water them -- they are not drought tolerant.
Once they've bloomed in late spring, the foliage just disappears completely in the summer, like other spring bulbs.
The plant does not set seed and its flowers are sterile.
They grow slowly, though. I'd love to share, but my cluster of them hasn't expanded much over the last 6 or 7 years that I think I've had them, so they aren't ready to be divided. (Or, I'm not yet ready to divide them)
The are right outside our breakfast room window, so I get to look at them every time I eat or work at the table, and they are in front of the birdbath, so it's a lovely sight.
I love all the plants in my garden (well, most of them). But there are a few favorites that bring special joy, and my Sprekelia are among them.
Sprekelia is a bulb I've meant to try. I have Oxblood Lily which blooms near summer's end. One can't have too many bulbs.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting flower shape and such a pretty color! I wonder how they'll do in the PNW.....Maybe I'll look into buying some this fall. Are they for fall planting?
ReplyDeleteDiana, That is a stunning color!
ReplyDeleteNellJean - I have some Oxblood lilies too and love them. I'm so glad the deer leave my Sprekelia alone.
ReplyDeleteAlison - I don't remember when I planted mine many years ago, but I would assume it's fall planting since it is a spring bulb. I believe you may also be able to plant it in a pot!
Gail - It's so vibrant and exotic looking, isn't it. Just my style!
I know I have that plant somewhere in my yard. I just can't remember where. Need to go hunt it down.
ReplyDeleteOkay, now it's on my list of favorite plant wannabees. Will go hunt it down right now.
ReplyDeleteIt's beautiful! I don't think I've ever seen it before. I don't use much red in my garden, but I love seasonal spots of reds as exciting as your Sprekelia! And I like saying it :)
ReplyDeleteBlog hopping & just came across your darling gardening blog...I host a garden party on Thursdays & would love to have you link up sometime???? xoxo, tracie
ReplyDeleteWhat a pretty bloom! I don't think I have seen that one before. I like the red, very nice. I wouldn't want to divide yet either, your clump is just getting large enough to really put forth a good show.
ReplyDeleteDiana,
ReplyDeleteI have had a few bulbs for years!!! and still NO blooms! What do you do to get them to bloom???? Help, please.