Flame Lily

Family

Colchicaceae

Origin

East Africa & Asia

Description

Gloriosa is a tropical vine which grows to 6 . Its lily-like flowers of bright red, yellow, Orange, Purple are very showy. This fragile grower with exotic colored flowers, narrow, waxy-edged petals is a climber needing a trellis or some type of wire or support for the tendrils to cling to.

Plant begins blooming with 3 to 4 inch flowers having not real fragrance approximately 2 to 3 months after planting a mature bulb.

Gloriosa Mixed bulbs develop climbing lily flowers in a variety of vivid colors, making them excellent for trellises and garden showcases. They bloom from May to August in the plains and from June to September in the hills. Optimal planting periods are February to April for plains and March to May for hills.

Environment

Gloriosa lilies require sun and warm temperatures, but appreciate partial shade from hot mid-day sun. Plants thrive with increased humidity around them.

Gloriosa lilies prefer organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil. They like a sunny spot but produce best blooms when placed in locations with some afternoon shade. After blooming, dig, dry and store the tubers in a dry medium before first frost.

Plants respond well to warm temperatures, good water and moisture and ample feeding during the growing season

Landscape Use

Used on trellis or fences. Cut flowers last up to 8 days in floral arrangements.

Caution

All parts of the plant are poisonous ...