About Sprekelia formosissima (L.) Herb.
Sprekelia formosissima (L.) Herb. (previously classified as Zephyranthes formosissima) is a bulbous perennial herb. Its bulbs are ovate to globose, up to 5 cm wide, and have a long neck; bulbs also produce offsets. The fibrous-rooted plant grows 3 to 6 annual leaves per bulb. Leaves are strap-shaped, linear, bright green (sometimes glaucous), reaching up to 50 cm long and 2 cm wide. Its inflorescence grows from a hollow scape that is 40–70(–90) cm tall, and can hold 1 to 2 flowers, most often a single flower. Flowers are zygomorphic and bright red, with 6 tepals, 6 stamens that make up the androecium, and a gynoecium formed from 3 carpels. The stigma is trifid. Fruits are triangular capsules 1.5–2.7 cm wide, that carry black, flat, winged seeds measuring 9–11 mm long and 6.5–8 mm wide. This species is endemic to Mexico, and has been introduced to the Mariana Islands. It grows in a wide range of habitats, from hot and dry conditions to temperate humid conditions. It can grow in rocky, loamy, or sandy soils on rocky slopes and outcrops. Its flowers are adapted for pollination by hummingbirds. It is common in cultivation. In warm climates it is planted outdoors; in colder climates it can be grown in pots, or planted and lifted each year similar to gladiolus. Even with ideal growing conditions, bulbs often do not produce blooms every year. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends it as an interesting ornamental choice for heated conservatories or greenhouses.
