Flame lily (Gloriosa superba)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flame lily on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Colchicaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Flame lily
Gloriosa superba, also known as Flame Lily or Climbing Lily, is a tuberous vine from the Colchicaceae family, renowned for its spectacular flowers with wavy petals and vibrant colors ranging from intense red to yellow. Its exotic, flame-like blossoms make it a stunning focal point in tropical gardens, pergolas, or as an indoor plant with support. This climbing plant can reach several meters in height, ideal for adding a dramatic and colorful touch to any space.
Native range
Tropical Africa and Asia
Care tips
It requires full sun or bright partial shade for optimal flowering, avoiding the most intense midday direct sun in very hot climates. Watering should be regular during growth and flowering, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged; drastically reduce watering when the plant enters dormancy. It prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A common mistake is not providing adequate support for climbing, which can limit its development and flowering.
How to save a dying Flame lily
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown leaves, wilting, no blooms, soft tuber.
- First aid
- Check the tuber. If soft, cut damaged parts. Repot in well-draining soil and reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing tuber rot. Also, lack of support for its climbing stems.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the tuber is not completely rotted. Requires patience and good drainage.