Keep soil evenly moist during active growth, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering substantially during dormancy; never leave rhizomes in soggy soil.
A compact Peruvian lily with purple-toned, orchidlike flowers and leafy stems arising from fleshy underground rhizomes. Best treated as a protected patio or shade-garden perennial in Phoenix, where extreme summer heat can limit performance.
Mildly toxic to pets if ingested (GI upset); sap may irritate skin
Care Instructions
Light: Gentle morning sun with afternoon shade, or bright filtered light. Avoid intense afternoon sun and reflected heat.
Water: Keep soil evenly moist during active growth, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering substantially during dormancy; never leave rhizomes in soggy soil.
Soil: Loose, organically enriched, well-drained soil. A raised bed or container with quality potting mix is preferable to heavy, alkaline desert soil.
Mature size: Approximately 1–2 feet tall and wide; size varies with growing conditions.
Bloom: Primarily spring and potentially fall in Phoenix. Flowering usually slows or stops during extreme summer heat.
Evergreen / deciduous: Herbaceous perennial; may retain foliage in mild weather but can become dormant during extreme summer heat or after frost.
Growth rate: Moderate during cool, favorable weather; slows markedly in summer heat.