Giant Spear Lily

(Doryanthes palmeri)

Giant Spear Lily (Doryanthes palmeri)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Doryanthes palmeri, commonly known as the Giant Spear Lily, is a succulent perennial herb endemic to the coastal regions and adjacent plateaus of eastern Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Queensland. It is characterized by a dramatic rosette of sword-shaped, hairless leaves that can reach lengths of up to 3 meters (10 feet). The Giant Spear Lily produces a striking flower stalk that may rise to 5 meters (16 feet) in height, with red flowers blooming in spring. The flowers are particularly showy, attracting various pollinators. This species is adapted to grow in open forest and grassland habitats where it can receive ample sunlight.

The Giant Spear Lily is valued for its architectural form and is often used as a focal point in gardens and landscapes. It is also appreciated for its low maintenance requirements once established. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate light shade and requires well-drained soil. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. The Giant Spear Lily is vulnerable to snail and slug damage when young. It is listed as Vulnerable under the New South Wales Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 4.5-9 feet
  • Width: 3-9 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Coastal regions and adjacent plateaus of New South Wales and Queensland

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Doryanthes palmeri, Doryanthes excelsa var. guilfoylei, Doryanthes excelsa var. palmeri, Doryanthes guilfoylei, Doryanthes larkinii, Doryanthes palmeri var. larkinii,

GBIF Accepted Name: Doryanthes palmeri W.Bull