PLANTS
PLANTS IN THE
GARDENS DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE WONDERFUL PLANTS TO LOOK OUT FOR NEXT TIME YOU VISIT THE GARDENS. planted because, being wide and spreading, it is better suited to parklands and larger gardens where its spreading form can be seen to full advantage. While the height of the foliage cluster may be less than two metres, a mature plant of this species may have a spread of 2–3 metres in width in ideal conditions. The brilliant flower spike appears from the centre of the foliage, arching laterally to two metres or more in length. The two species are indeed “show-stoppers” when in bloom.
‘When these are in flower, it is impossible to miss them’
Doryanthes palmeri
SPEAR LILY, FLAME LILY
Doryanthes species Family Agavaceae/Doryanthaceae There are only two species in the genus, Doryanthes excelsa and Doryanthes palmeri. Doryanthes excelsa is by far the better known and the most widely planted. Formerly known as the Gymea Lily, it occurs mainly on the sandstone regions of New South Wales, from the Central Coast to the Illawarra. It has been used to great effect in public plantings, including as a highway divider on the Southern Cross Drive leading to Sydney Airport. Doryanthes excelsa forms a tall, wide
rosette of glossy green leaves, which can be 15–20 centimetres wide and up to two metres long. From the centre of this foliage, a tall flowering spike develops. The flower spike is generally four metres or more high. Initially the large flower bud resembles a classical torch, opening to reveal a cluster of rich red flowers. Flowers, which are quite long-lasting, appear mainly in spring through summer. These spectacular flower spikes are very attractive to nectar-feeding birds. This species was introduced to the Gardens by Charles Fraser as early as 1819. Doryanthes palmeri is also a spectacular plant but is less frequently
Both species require similar conditions to thrive. They are not fussy about soil type and will grow in any variety of fairly well-drained soil. A temperate to semi-tropical climate should suit both. Fertiliser is not generally needed but if so, a slow-release, organic variety would be best. After planting, a mulch of welldecayed organic matter would be beneficial. Little or no maintenance is required beyond removing the spent flowering spikes once they have completely dried off. Both species are planted in several areas of the Royal Botanic Garden, including the long border to the right of the Henry Lawson Gate on Mrs Macquaries Road (bed 103), and in the Australian Border and Rockery which leads to the Opera House entrance gate (bed 130). If wandering in the Garden when these are in flower, it is impossible to miss them! Margaret Hanks, Growing Friends, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
THE GARDENS WINTER 2022 29
