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Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily)

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) is a dramatic architectural plant admired for its massive sword like foliage and spectacular towering flower spikes. Native to Australia, this striking evergreen plant creates a bold statement in New Zealand gardens and landscapes. The large green leaves form an impressive clump that provides year round structure and texture. When mature, Doryanthes palmeri produces tall flower stems carrying clusters of red blooms that attract birds and pollinators. It is ideal for gardeners wanting a unique and eye catching feature plant.

Doryanthes palmeri plant in a garden with a large red flower.
Doryanthes palmeri plants in flower.
The average plant height is 50cm.
$146.79

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Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Shrubs
Height:1.50 m
Spread:2.00 m
Flowering time:Spring
Tolerances:Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses:Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock, Tropical
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku11303

How to grow Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) in NZ

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) grows best in full sun or partial shade with fertile, free draining soil rich in organic matter. Choose a spacious planting position where the large foliage can develop freely without crowding nearby plants. Water regularly during establishment and through dry periods to support healthy growth. Applying mulch around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. This plant performs particularly well in warmer and coastal regions of New Zealand where mild conditions encourage vigorous foliage development and eventual flowering.

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) care tips

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) is relatively low maintenance once established and requires only occasional care. Remove older or damaged leaves as needed to maintain a tidy appearance and improve airflow around the plant. Water during prolonged dry periods, particularly for younger plants and container grown specimens. Applying a balanced fertiliser during spring will encourage strong foliage growth and support flowering in mature plants. Ensure the soil remains free draining to prevent root problems. Mulching annually helps conserve moisture and reduce weed growth around the base.

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) size, spacing, and growth rate

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) typically grows to around 2 to 3 metres tall and wide in foliage spread, with flowering spikes reaching several metres higher when mature. Space plants at least 2 to 3 metres apart to allow room for the large leaves and impressive mature size. This variety has a moderate growth rate and develops steadily in warm conditions with regular watering and fertile soil. Its bold architectural form makes it best suited to larger gardens and spacious landscape settings.

Landscaping uses for Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily)

Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) is widely used in landscaping for creating dramatic focal points and strong architectural structure. It works beautifully as a feature plant in modern gardens, subtropical landscapes, and large open spaces where the bold foliage can be fully appreciated. The towering flower spikes provide additional seasonal interest and attract birds to the garden. This plant also combines well with palms, grasses, and other large foliage plants. Doryanthes palmeri is particularly effective in coastal and low maintenance landscape designs.

Why buy Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company supplies premium quality Doryanthes palmeri (Giant Spear Lily) plants that are healthy, vigorous, and ready to thrive in New Zealand gardens. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, The Plant Company offers expert advice and carefully selected plants suited to local growing conditions. Customers benefit from reliable nationwide delivery and plants grown for excellent garden performance and long term success. Whether you are creating a dramatic feature garden or adding bold architectural structure to your landscape, The Plant Company provides exceptional plant quality and trusted horticultural expertise.

Questions and Answers

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