The Essential Guide To The Gymea Lily
Botanical Name: Doryanthes excelsa
Common Name: Gymea Lily
General Knowledge: The Gymea Lily is native to the coastal areas of New South Wales in Australia, thriving in the sandy soils of heathland and shrubland environments. This striking flower is commonly used in landscaping for its bold appearance and is also popular in large floral arrangements due to its impressive size and vibrant colour. A fun fact about the Gymea Lily is that its flower head can reach up to six metres in height, making it a true giant in the plant world and a spectacular sight to behold when in full bloom.
Colour Range: Vibrant red
Australian Seasonal Availability: The Gymea Lily flowers are available from winter to spring.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Due to its striking appearance, Gymea Lily is a popular choice for grand events and weddings, particularly in the winter and spring seasons.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, it is commercially grown in Australia.
Imported into Australia: This plant is native to Australia, specifically to the coastal areas of New South Wales, and it is not commonly imported from other countries.
Buying Tips: Look for flowers that are well-formed but not yet fully opened, as they are easier to transport and will continue to open after harvest. Avoid blooms that are deformed or damaged and choose flowers with minimal bract browning.
Design Tips and Advice: The Gymea Lily is perfect for adding line and form to floral arrangements. It is suitable for large displays, particularly in spaces like hotel foyers. The individual florets can be wired into wedding bouquets or used in various designs as low placements. Be sure to remove the vibrant green pollen from the anthers to prevent staining on fabrics.
Flower Maturity: Purchase the flower when it is at the spear stage, or when the individual flowers are swelling but have not yet split open.
Expected Vase Life: 2–3 weeks.
Typical Stem Length: 60–200 cm
Typical Bunch Size: The flowers are typically sold as single stems due to their large size.
Floral Preservatives: Not required.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Gymea Lily is not sensitive to ethylene.
Temperature Requirements: Store between 2–4 °C.
Avoiding Potential Problems: The large flower heads should be transported lying down, cushioned, and supported to prevent damage. After transport, recut the stem and place it into a bucket of clean water with a biocide added.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Store at 2–4 °C but avoid prolonged cool storage as it is not necessary for this flower.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Ensure continuous hydration and use clean water with a biocide added.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: This is not applicable for Gymea Lily as it is not sensitive to ethylene.