Aztec Lily
worsleya procera
Also known as: ["Aztec Lily","Worsleya Wheel"]
Overview
A rare and striking bulbous plant native to tropical regions, known for its large, funnel-shaped flowers with a distinctive blue-purple hue.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Worsleya |
| Botanical Name: | Worsleya procera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix with organic matter; e.g., cactus mix with added peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sun which can scorch the leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to new light conditions; provide shade during peak sun hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; division is faster but less common due to the plant's rarity.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant in new pots.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
- Provide bright indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use sphagnum moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds to improve germination.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; Seeds: 1–3 months to germinate, 1–2 years to mature.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, pots, well-draining soil mix, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain aesthetics and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; make precise cuts; dispose of removed material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage; leaves may turn mushy or black.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting despite moist soil; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Worsleya procera if they consume the roots or bulbs. The alkaloids in these parts can cause gastrointestinal irritation, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Worsleya procera roots or bulbs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. Symptoms are typically self-limiting but may require veterinary attention if severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicWorsleya procera contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The roots and bulbs are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Worsleya procera?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Worsleya procera require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: Is Worsleya procera suitable for beginners?
A: No, due to its challenging care requirements, it is best suited for experienced plant enthusiasts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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