Sprekelia formosissima

Sprekelia formosissima, Jacobean or Aztec Liy is a stunningly exotic Amaryllid from central America with a spectacular spider-like flower that is a deep rich scarlet with yellow anthers. The linear foliage follows after flowering. The bulbs are best planted in a rich but gritty substrate and like many of the Amaryllidaceae they appreciate it if some of their neck is showing above the ground. Relatively easy although somewhat erratic in flowering, they need to be under glass in the UK and suit a cool but frost-free glasshouse. Bring them into the house in the spring when they are in flower and place them on the windowsill in your kitchen or bathroom for an elegant display of interior exotica.