Contents
Description
Sprekelia Formosissima, also known as Aztec Lily or Jacobean Lily, is a native Mexican bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are crimson-red in color and bloom from spring to summer. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, up to 10 cm long, and have six petals with a white center. Each stem produces one flower, and the plant can grow up to 40 cm in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Sprekelia |
Appearance
The Sprekelia Formosissima has long, strap-like leaves that are dark green in color and can grow up to 60 cm in length. The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette around the stem. The plant produces a single, tall stem that bears the large, trumpet-shaped flowers. The flowers are crimson-red in color and have six petals with a white center. Each stem produces one flower that can be up to 10 cm long. The plant can grow up to 40 cm in height and 20 cm in width.
Care Guide
The Sprekelia Formosissima is a low maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a slightly acidic pH level.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sprekelia Formosissima is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by spider mites and mealybugs. Overwatering can also lead to root rot. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area. If pest infestations occur, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
Habitat
The Sprekelia Formosissima is native to Mexico and is commonly found in rocky areas and on hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions. The plant is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming period of the Sprekelia Formosissima?
A: The plant blooms from spring to summer.
Q: How often should I water the Sprekelia Formosissima?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Sprekelia Formosissima?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Is the Sprekelia Formosissima a low maintenance plant?
A: Yes, the plant is a low maintenance plant that requires moderate care.
Related Plants
- Crinum asiaticum
- Hippeastrum
- Narcissus
- Zephyranthes
References
- “Sprekelia formosissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c634>.
- “Sprekelia formosissima.” PlantFiles. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/328/>.
- “Sprekelia formosissima.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/63393/Sprekelia-formosissima/Details>.
