Scadoxus multiflorus

Blood lily

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Blood lilyAfrican blood lilyFireball lily

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical and southern Africa

usdaZones

9-11 (typically grown indoors or as a greenhouse specimen elsewhere)

companionPlants

Clivia miniata, Haemanthus albiflos, Aspidistra elatior

culturalUses

Grown mainly as an ornamental for its striking inflorescence; sometimes used in traditional African medicine (with caution due to toxicity).

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect sunlight but tolerates some shade.

WateringWater regularly during the active growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during dormancy.

SoilWell-draining, moderately fertile soil; a mix containing loam, peat, and sand is ideal.

FertilizerFeed every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer while in growth.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity but adapts to average indoor conditions.

TemperatureIdeal temperatures are 18-27°C (65-80°F); protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitHerbaceous perennial bulb

Mature Size30-60 cm tall and wide (12-24 inches)

Growth RateModerate growth rate

BloomingProduces striking spherical umbels of bright red flowers in late spring to summer before the leaves emerge.

DormancyBulb enters dormancy after flowering; foliage dies back during this phase.

MethodsDivision of bulbs, Seed

DifficultyModerate

Best SeasonAfter dormancy in late summer or early autumn

PruningRemove fading flowers and yellowing leaves to preserve energy in the bulb.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years after dormancy or when the bulbs outgrow their pots.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to root rot if overwatered; occasionally affected by mealybugs and aphids.

ToxicityToxic if ingested by humans and pets; contains alkaloids.

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