Gloriosa

This group consists of 5 or 6 tender, tuberous-rooted, deciduous, climbing vines, which are natives of South Africa. These members of the Lily family, Liliaceae, (Commonly known as Climbing Lilies; Flame Lilies; Gloriosa Lilies; Glory Lilies) are suitable for growing on trellises, in containers indoors and outdoors and as houseplants. They produce weak, trailing stems clothed with glossy leaves, which are tipped at the ends with tendrils to aid in climbing. These plants can reach heights up to 8 feet. Flame Lilies are valued for their exotic, 4- to 5-inch flowers whose wavy-edged petals are reflexed back as if blown by a strong wind. If the flowers are cut just before the petals bend back, they will last up to 8 days in an arrangement. Split the end of the main stem before putting it into the vase. G. rothschildiana is the prettiest of the Flame Lilies, reaching 3 to 6 feet in height and having whorled leaves. The wavy petals of its flowers are crimson, edged in bright yellow making the blossoms look like they're on fire. G. simplex produces orange and yellow flowers that open with a light greenish tinge. The vines reach about 3 feet in length. G. superba var. Lutea has pure yellow flowers with slender petals.

Pot Cultivation

Flame Lilies are hardy from zones 7 to 10. They prefer night temperatures ranging from 60� to 70� F and day temperatures at 75� F or higher with high humidity. They will tolerate night temperatures down to 50� or 60� F. Grow Flame Lilies in fast draining, organic, acid to neutral soil in a location that receives light to medium shade. In the garden, plant the finger-like, L- or V-shaped tubers 2 inches deep. They should be set horizontally in the holes. To extend the blooming period, start the tubers inside in late winter then transplant to the garden. One to three tubers can be grown in an 8-inch container. Water and fertilize while in active growth throughout the blooming period. After blooming, gradually stop watering, then dig and store the tubers dry for about 6 months at 50� or 60� F. They can be left in pots of dry soil until spring, when they should be replanted in fresh soil. In suitable climates, they may be left in the ground over winter if sheltered from cold, damp conditions.

Propagation

Offsets may be detached or the tubers may be divided at repotting time. Make sure that each cut piece has an eye, or growing point. Only disturb them when their foliage has completely ripened. All Flame Lilies produce large pods of reddish, marble-like seeds in the fall. Save these for planting in containers in March. The seeds are slow to sprout, so give them at least 4 months. The new plants quickly form tubers and will be ready to plant in beds in their third season.