Palmer spear-lily
Doryanthes palmeri
Family: Doryanthaceae
What it is like
It is a large tussock forming lily plant. It grows 1-3 m high and spreads 1.5-6 m wide. The leaves are sword shaped or strap like. They are 3 m long and 20 cm wide. They are bright green. The flower stalk is 2-5 m tall. It has scattered small leaves. The flowers are about 6 cm long. They are reddish-brown. They are in heads at the top of the stalk. These heads can be 1 m long. The fruit is a dull greenish brown capsule. It is 7 cm long.
There are 2 Doryanthes species.
Where it is found
It can grow in warm temperate and temperate zones. It is damaged by drought or frost. It is best in light to medium, well-drained soils. It needs a protected, sunny position. It suits hardiness zones 10-12. Hobart Botanical Gardens. Melbourne Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia (country/location of origin), Indonesia, SE Asia, Tasmania
How it is used for food
The flower stalk is soaked in water then roasted and eaten.
Edible parts
Roots, flowers
How it is grown
It can be grown from seed or by division of the clump.
Its other names
Local names
Lili tombak merah