Aztec lily (Sprekelia formosissima)
Discover the stunning Sprekelia formosissima, the Aztec lily, famous for its unique crimson blooms and easy care in warm zones.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Sprekelia formosissima, widely known as the Aztec lily, is a show-stopping herbaceous perennial celebrated for its intensely dramatic, brilliant crimson flowers. These unique blooms, resembling a cross or an orchid, arise singly on sturdy stems, providing spectacular vertical interest in sunny gardens. Native to the rocky slopes of Mexico, this bulb thrives where conditions mimic its arid, well-drained origins, making it a prized addition for specialists and collectors.
Culturally, the Aztec lily shares many requirements with its relative, the Hippeastrum (Amaryllis), demanding sharp drainage, especially during its winter rest period. Growing Sprekelia formosissima successfully translates into providing full sun, medium water during the growing season, and ensuring dry conditions when the plant goes dormant. Its striking appearance and easy clumping habit make it a fantastic focal point in smaller beds or dedicated bulb displays.
Gardeners appreciate the architectural beauty this plant brings; the leaves are slender and strap-like, but the true value lies in the unparalleled flower display. If you are gardening within USDA Zones 10 and above, the Sprekelia formosissima can provide reliable seasonal color, while gardeners in cooler regions can successfully container-grow this magnificent Aztec lily.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Plant Type: Bulb
- Native Range: Mexico
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 0.75-1 ft
- Spread: 0.75-1 ft
- Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
- Bloom Description: Red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting the Sprekelia formosissima bulb should occur when temperatures warm, aligning with spring growth initiation for amaryllis. Optimal soil composition is crucial: aim for evenly moist, rocky, or sandy loams that must be extremely well-draining. Proper drainage is vital year-round, but particularly during the winter dormancy period to prevent bulb rot.
During the active growing season, maintain medium moisture levels and provide regular feeding with fertilizer applications. It is essential to leave the foliage intact after the flowers fade, as this energy supports the bulb for the following year’s display. Once growth ceases, taper watering significantly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely through winter.
For gardeners in zones colder than Zone 10, container culture is highly recommended, treating the bulb much like an amaryllis. Ensure pots are housed outdoors in full sun during the warmer months, gradually acclimatizing them to outdoor conditions in spring. If planted directly in the ground in Zone 8 or 9, provide a protected location and a heavy mulch layer during cold winters. Attempting to divide offsets should only be done when absolutely necessary, as the Aztec lily generally dislikes disturbance.
Landscape Uses
The exotic appearance of the Aztec lily makes it perfectly suited for focal points where its unique structure can be fully appreciated. It excels in rock gardens or alpine settings where sharp drainage is naturally achieved, mimicking its native habitat. Furthermore, growing Sprekelia formosissima in dedicated containers allows maximum flexibility, enabling gardeners in cooler climates (Zone 7 and below) to move the bulb indoors or into sheltered spaces before frost threatens.
In the garden, these plants look striking when massed slightly, creating a carpet of crimson against contrasting, lower-growing foliage. Consider pairing them with textural, drought-tolerant companions once they finish blooming, such as creeping sedums or low ornamental grasses that tolerate similar full-sun exposure. Their height (up to 1 foot) makes them excellent mid-height accents, preventing them from being obscured by taller border perennials.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Sprekelia formosissima, commonly called Aztec lily or Jacobean lily, is a herbaceous, bulbous perennial native to exposed, rocky slopes and outcrops in central and southern Mexico. The flowers are held singly on sturdy, upright flowering stalks reaching up to 1’ tall that appear in early spring. The blooms are made up of the six, bright crimson red, tepals (petal-like sepals) and can reach up to 6” across. The flower may also resemble the Cross of St. James, who was the reigning monarch during the Jacobean era.
Tolerances
(No data available)
Potential Problems
The primary threat to the Sprekelia formosissima bulb is excessive moisture, which frequently leads to bulb rotting, especially when the plant requires a dry dormancy period in winter. Rotting is preventable through meticulous soil preparation ensuring superb drainage in all conditions. Fungal issues like narcissus leaf scorch can occur during hot, humid periods, manifesting on the foliage; promptly remove and dispose of affected material to prevent spread. Occasionally, sucking pests such as mealy bugs may become problematic, requiring targeted treatment if observed on the foliage or bulbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Aztec lily suitable for?
The Aztec lily (Sprekelia formosissima) is hardy in USDA Zones 8 through 11.
How large does Sprekelia formosissima grow?
This bulb typically reaches a height and spread between 0.75 to 1 foot.
What sun exposure does Sprekelia formosissima need?
Sprekelia formosissima thrives when planted in full sun exposures.
When does Aztec lily bloom?
The Aztec lily is typically a seasonal bloomer, producing striking red flowers.
Conclusion
The Sprekelia formosissima, or Aztec lily, offers unparalleled visual drama with its unique, ruby-red blossoms emerging above slender leaves. Its medium maintenance schedule is justified by its exotic presentation in the garden or container setting. Before planting, confirm your garden falls within Zones 8–11 or prepare to grow this beauty in pots to manage winter cold and ensure dry dormancy.
Companion Planting
For successful companion planting with the Aztec lily, prioritize species that also enjoy sharp drainage and full sun, especially during their summer growing phase. Since Sprekelia formosissima requires a dry winter rest, look for Mediterranean or arid climate partners that do not require heavy summer irrigation. Good companions include various ornamental alliums, low-growing Yucca species, or drought-tolerant Salvias.
When planting in rock gardens, intersperse the bulbs with low-growing, gravel-loving succulents like certain Sempervivum or Sedum varieties. These companions provide textural contrast while their minimal water needs in summer will not interfere with the need to maintain sharp drainage around the Sprekelia formosissima bulbs.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring is the key activation period for the Aztec lily; resume regular watering as new growth (foliage and flower spikes) emerges, and begin a feeding schedule with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Summer is the display time, requiring consistent moisture (medium water needs) but never soggy feet; this is when the magnificent crimson flowers appear.
As autumn approaches in cooler zones, start thinking about protection. In Zone 8, ensure heavy mulch is available before the first hard freeze, or prepare to lift the bulbs or store containers in a cool, dry area. Winter demands dryness; cease watering completely and provide light ventilation if overwintering bulbs indoors or in a protected greenhouse environment.
