About
A bulbous perennial 60cm tall, with broadly lance-shaped leaves to 30cm long, and globose umbels to 15cm across, composed of narrow-petalled scarlet flowers with prominent stamens, followed by 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, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 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
CultivationPlant bulbs with the necks just above the surface, when dormant, in moderately fertile soil. Under glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added leaf mould and grit in full light with shade from hot sun. Flowering will be prolonged if light levels are reduced when the buds open. Water freely when in growth and apply a dilute balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep just moist when dormant and do not pot on regularly as flowering is best when congested
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sow seeds as soon as ripe and germinate at 19-24°C (66-75°F). Remove offsets in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free