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These spectacular trumpet-shaped tropical lilies, indigenous t o
South America, are cultivated virtually everywhere as pot plants.
There are more than 80 species but it is the intensely developed
hybrids that are most often grown.
These have been bred mainly by the Dutch and are known as Dutch
hybrids; they include Apple Blossom and Cocktail. Other striking
cultivars include Carnival, Desert Dawn, the beautiful red Kalahari
and Red Lion. The flowers can be up to 12 (30 cm) across and are
borne, before the leaves develop, in clusters of 3 or 4 atop a large
hollow stem.
Colors include white, pink, red and pink, and red streaked with
white.
They generally grow to 18 in (45 cm) high and 12 in (30 cm)
wide.Bulbs should be planted in fall (autumn) in well-drained soil
rich in organic matter, with just the tip of the bulb exposed, in
full sun or part-shade.
Water and feed well through the growing season and allow the bulb to
dry after the foliage dies down.
Protect from snails. |
