Giant Spear Lily
doryanthes palmeri
Also known as: ["Spear Lily","Palmer's Lily"]
Overview
A large, striking plant native to Australia, known for its massive flowering spike and sword-like leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Doryanthaceae |
| Genus: | Doryanthes |
| Botanical Name: | Doryanthes palmeri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but requires shade from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak summer hours; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–29°C (64–84°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in consistently warm conditions.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months with balanced slow-release fertilizer during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in winter to allow dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; maintain temperatures above 20°C (68°F) for optimal rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator (optional).
Quick Tips
Use a sterile cutting tool; ensure the cutting has at least one node; maintain humidity to prevent drying.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of dead or weak stems; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to remove dead or damaged foliage, encourage bushier growth, and maintain shape; focus on structural improvement rather than heavy reduction.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain fully to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf necrosis if prolonged below 10°C (50°F).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; use frost cloth for outdoor protection; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; dilute correctly; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDoryanthes palmeri is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDoryanthes palmeri is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDoryanthes palmeri is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Doryanthes palmeri grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 meters tall, with a flowering spike that can reach 4 meters.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and well-suited for coastal environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Doryanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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