About
This bulbous perennial to 1.2m tall, with wavy-margined, oblong-lance-shaped leaves and stout stems bearing umbels of spidery scarlet flowers with long stamens, sometimes followed by small orange berries.
About the genus
Scadoxus are bulbous, rhizomatous, usually evergreen perennials, with spirally arranged, lance-shaped or ovate leaves and erect stems bearing terminal umbels of showy red flowers sometimes with colourful bracts, followed by red to yellow berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
ToxicityOrnamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a well drained, peat-free, loam-based compost in full sun with some protection from very hot sun. Water freely when in active growth and gradually withhold water as the leaves fade for the winter.
PruningNo pruning required other than removing the faded leaves.
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 19-24C (66-75F) as soon as ripe. Offsets can be separated and planted up individually in the spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free