Flame lily, Glory lily, Fire lily, Climbing lily, gloriosa lily
gloriosa superba
Also known as: ["Flame lily","Glory lily","Fire lily","Climbing lily"]
Overview
A climbing vine with striking, flame-like flowers that can vary in color from yellow to red, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Genus: | Gloriosa |
| Botanical Name: | Gloriosa superba |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or protected outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid excessive pruning during dormancy.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy; avoid frost.
Protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to low-nitrogen formula during flowering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or tuber division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; full establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back yellowing or dead stems at the base; trim overgrown branches to maintain shape.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth; shape the plant for better light exposure.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove only dead/damaged parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any rotting roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the tuber outgrows the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply; allow excess to drain to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during active growth and flowering periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; cease fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicGloriosa superba is highly toxic to cats due to its alkaloid content, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. Even small amounts can be dangerous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids in Gloriosa superba are highly toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects. Ingestion can lead to serious health complications or death.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicGloriosa superba contains colchicine-like alkaloids that interfere with cell division, leading to severe gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular effects. The plant is highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested in sufficient quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gloriosa superba toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How should I care for Gloriosa superba?
A: Provide well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade, and regular watering during the growing season.
Q: Does Gloriosa superba attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its vibrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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