Sprekelia formosissima (Aztec Lily)

Grown for its flamboyant flowers, Sprekelia formosissima (Aztec Lily) is a tender, bulbous perennial boasting brilliant red flowers, up to 6 in. across (15 cm), borne singly atop fairly short, sturdy stems. Resembling orchids, each flower is made up of 6 petals: 3 wide-spreading upper petals, curving back at the tips, and 3 pendent lower petals, rolled into a cylinder for part of their length. Blooming in late spring to early summer and sometimes again in fall, the elegant flowers only last a few days. The long, dark-green, strap-like leaves emerge in spring about the same time as or before the flowers. Several leaves are produced from each bulb, growing in an upright rosette initially, then flopping over as they get longer. In mild climates where they are nearly evergreen, Aztec Lilies can be left in the ground. In cool climates, the bulbs must be dug up in the fall and then stored in a dry, frost-free location for the winter.

• Grows up to 6-12 in. high (15-30 cm) and 5-6 in. wide (12-15 cm). Aztec Lilies will multiply if left undisturbed for several years.
• Easily grown in full sun in slightly alkaline, well-drained soils. Water moderately in growth and apply a half-strength liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks after flowering. Reduce water as the foliage fades. Keep almost dry when dormant. Excessive soil moisture may cause the bulbs to rot or not flower.
• Plant this member of the Amaryllis family in the garden or keep it in a pot. Most effective when planted in groups.
• Generally pest free. Keep an eye out for narcissus leaf scorch.
• Where hardy, plant in fall with the neck and shoulders of the bulb above soil level. Where winters are cold, set out bulbs in spring.
• If grown in containers, repot every 3-4 years.
• Propagate by separating offsets when dormant in early autumn. This plant resents being disturbed and may not flower for several years after being dug or divided.
• Native to Mexico.