Overview

Gloriosa is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Gloriosa, part of the Colchicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Gloriosa grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and wall side borders.

About

Gloriosa, commonly known as glory lily, is a climbing perennial plant within the Colchicaceae family. It features tuberous roots and deciduous foliage with tendrils at the leaf tips. The plant produces prominent lily-like flowers with reflexed, wavy tepals and elongated stamens, typically appearing in spring and summer. Suited to full sun and sheltered positions, it thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil with roots kept in shade. Gloriosa is hardy under glass (H1c) and is ideal for patios, containers, and wall-side borders, propagated by division or seed.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Gloriosa

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H1c

Plant details

Gloriosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Climber Wall Shrub, Conservatory Greenhouse
Habit
Climbing
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Patio and container plants, Wall side borders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Gloriosa

Propagation
Division, Seed
Pest resistance
Susceptible to aphids
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Gloriosa?

Gloriosa prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Gloriosa need?

Gloriosa grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Gloriosa hardy in the UK?

Gloriosa has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.

How do I propagate Gloriosa?

Division, Seed.

More in the Gloriosa genus

Browse all Gloriosa