Climbing lily, creeping lily, glory lily, gloriosa lily, tiger claw and fire lily
Syn.: Gloriosa rothschildiana O’Brien
Family: Colchicaceae
Description: The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and have a unique tendril-like tip that aids in climbing. The plant can grow up to 3 meters in length, with slender, vine-like stems. Its buds develop into vibrant, flame-like flowers, usually red and yellow, with wavy petals that curl backward.
Substitutions: Gloriosa superba ‚Lutea‘ – This cultivar features bright yellow flowers, providing a different color variation while maintaining the same striking appearance. – Gloriosa superba ‚Citrina‘ – This variety has pale yellow to lime green flowers, offering a more subdued yet unique color option. – Gloriosa superba ‚Greenii‘: Characterized by greenish-yellow flowers, this cultivar presents a unique look compared to the typical red and yellow flowers of the species.
Ecology: Thrives in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C) and can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures at night. This plant requires moderate to high humidity and should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It grows best in full sun to partial shade, making sure it gets plenty of light while being protected from the harshest midday sun.
General Distribution: Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, particularly in countries such as India and Sri Lanka. It has also been naturalized in various other parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, Australia and parts of Central and South America.
Use: These flowers are not only eye-catching but also have a symbolic significance in various cultures. However, every part of the plant is highly toxic due to the presence of colchicine, particularly the tubers. Despite its toxicity, it has been used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments like gout, arthritis, and parasitic infections. Modern applications also explore its potential in pharmaceuticals for cancer treatment, though extreme caution is necessary due to its poisonous nature.
Author of text and photos: Chanduni Bootawatta.
Photographed in Homagama, Sri Lanka on 18/07/2024.
Poslat emailem
