At our January 2007 meeting Kerry Barr gave us all a lift from the winter blues with the sight of his colorful "Aztec Lily". A native of Mexico and Guatemala it grows on rocky hillsides and is a member of the Amaryllis family. It is sometimes known as Amaryllis formosissima. This bulb can be planted in the ground in the Fall in mild climates, but lends itself very well to pot culture. It has a strap leaves and a strong stem with a flower like an orchid. It grows 12-18 inches tall. It needs a well drained soil and full sun. Give it regular water when the leaves and flowers are present. As soon as the leaves fade keep it dry.
            We were lucky to enjoy this plant in January as it usually flowers in the spring and summer. In addition to the vibrant color a further incentive to try this bulb is that it is reported to be deer and rodent resistant !
            Sprekelia formosissima can take light frost and is recommended for Sunset zone 9 and zones 12 through 24.

FULL PLANT NOTES FOR JANUARY 2007