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Doryanthes, Genus, excelsa, Species,
- Genus & species
Gymea lily
Overview
Doryanthes excelsa is a large evergreen perennial forming a dense rosette of strap-shaped leaves 1-2.5 m (3-8 ft) long and 5-10 cm (2-4 in) wide, sword-like and arching, mid- to dark green. Mature clumps spread 2-3 m (6.5-10 ft) across. From the rosette a stout flowering stem rises 2-6 m (6.5-20 ft) tall, topped by a dense rounded head 30-40 cm (12-16 in) across of red flowers, each 8-10 cm (3-4 in) long, surrounded by reddish bracts. Flowering occurs mainly in spring and is followed by woody capsules holding many flat seeds. The plant is slow to flower, often taking 8-10 years or more from seed to first bloom, and each rosette flowers once before that rosette dies and is replaced by offsets. The species grows on sandstone soils in heath and open forest and tolerates poor soils and drought once established, but is frost-sensitive when young and slow to establish.
Native Range
Native to coastal New South Wales, Australia, around the Sydney Basin and adjacent ranges, growing on sandstone-derived soils in heath, woodland, and open forest, often on exposed slopes and ridges.Suggested Uses
Grown as a feature and architectural plant in large gardens, parks, and sandstone landscapes, spaced 2-3 m (6.5-10 ft) apart. The long leaves and tall flower stems suit open, sunny positions with room to develop. The large size and slow growth limit its use in small gardens and containers.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 20'
Width/Spread6'6" - 10'
Bloom Information
Flowers mainly in spring, August to November in coastal New South Wales, with the tall stem developing over several months beforehand. Each rosette flowers once, after many years of growth, then is replaced by offsets. Flowering draws nectar-feeding birds.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight