Amazon Lily (Urceolina amazonica)

Amazon Lily

Urceolina amazonica

Its fragrant white blooms rise like floating stars above glossy foliage. Bulbous flowering perennial; common name: Amazon Lily.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch foliage; tolerates low light for short periods
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging the bulb to prevent rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, consistent temperatures; avoid drops below 12°C which can trigger dormancy and leaf yellowing
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Glossy, dark green elliptical leaves with smooth margins, growing in basal rosettes
  • Flower: Fragrant trumpet-shaped white blooms in umbels of 3–6 flowers on tall, upright scapes
  • Bulb: Underground tunicate bulb stores nutrients for seasonal dormancy
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; mist foliage to boost humidity in dry indoor conditions

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization during winter dormancy to avoid bulb damage

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, and dilute 1:20 for root drenching; avoid raw peels to prevent mold or pest infestations
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower scapes at the base to redirect energy to bulb growth
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at their basal attachment points
  • Separate offset bulbs during spring repotting to propagate new plants
  • Avoid cutting healthy foliage during active growth periods
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; ingestion may cause drooling, vomiting, oral pain, and difficulty swallowing

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral and throat irritation, mild skin irritation on contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes purity and delicate beauty in tropical floral arrangements

Usage: Ornamental indoor flowering plant; cut flower for fragrant bouquets