Doryanthes palmeri
Spear Lily
Description
This large attractive succulent will grow 8' tall and 6' wide. It has huge, 8' long, sword-like leaves. Plant is clumping. It produces clusters of reddish brown flowers that bloom in the summer rising out of the center of the foliage, followed by an egg-shaped fruit. This plant does best in full sun and becomes drought tolerant although it will appreciate some water and fertile soil. It also tolerates some shade. Remove spent flowers and brown leaves. This is a slow growing plant; you may have to wait 10 years to see your first bloom.
Plant Type
Succulent
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Red
Flower Season
Summer
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Loam
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Foundation, Patio, Raised Planter, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Container, Screen, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.