Doryanthes Excelsa

Gymea Lily / Giant Lily / Flame Lily / Illawarra Lily

Botanical Name: Doryanthes excelsa
Family: Asparagaceae (subfamily Hemerocallidoideae)
Origin: Australia (NSW sandstone coastal ranges)
Plant Type: Evergreen clumping perennial shrub

Overview

A dramatic architectural native for South Australian gardens, Doryanthes excelsa (Gymea Lily) forms huge rosettes of broad, sword-like green leaves and, once mature, throws towering flower spikes topped with large crimson-red blooms that feed birds. Thrives in sunny, well-drained, coastal and Mediterranean sites; superb as a statement plant, in drifts on banks, or in large pots.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 1.5–2 m H (foliage) × 2–3 m W; flower spike to 3–5 m in SA conditions
• Growth Rate: 10-30 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Broad, strap/sword-like evergreen leaves forming a bold, tidy clump
• Flowers: Spectacular spring–summer spikes with many nectar-rich red tubular flowers; long-lasting on the plant
  
• Seasonal Interest: Year-round evergreen structure; peak display spring–summer when in flower
• Wildlife Value: High nectar for honeyeaters and pollinators; architectural cover for small fauna
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant
  coastal-tolerant; light frost (protect emerging spikes from hard frost)
• Planting Density: Feature/mass: 1–1.5 m centres for bold drifts; specimens: 2–3 m apart
• Pet Friendly: Yes — generally regarded as non-toxic to pets; ingestion of any plant may cause mild tummy upset

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in sun; give light afternoon shade inland)
• Soil: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerates improved clay/raised beds; avoid waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry (increase in very sandy sites)
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; remove spent flower spikes at the base; trim weathered leaves; feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release (native-safe) fertiliser; avoid frequent root disturbance
• Lifespan: 25-50+ years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Acid to Neutral (tolerates slightly alkaline with sharp drainage)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Statement feature near entries, courtyards and pool surrounds (not for clipped hedging)
• Mass plant on banks/rocky slopes for a sculptural, low-water effect
• Large pots/urns for dramatic vertical accents and bird-friendly flowers

Why You Will Love It

Bold, low-maintenance and unforgettable in bloom. Gymea Lily brings resort-style impact with huge red flower spikes, thrives in SA’s heat and coastal conditions once established, and delivers decades of architectural structure with minimal fuss.