Scadoxus Multiflorus (Blood Lily)

Scadoxus multiflorus, commonly called Blood Lily, is one of those plants that stops people mid step. From a single strong stem rises a perfectly round flower head made up of hundreds of fine scarlet filaments tipped with golden pollen. The result looks almost electric, like a firework frozen in time. This dramatic bloom appears in early to mid summer, often before the foliage is fully developed. Each top sized 18 cm bulb produces a tall, sturdy stem that carries the flower well above the leaves, making it a natural focal point in the garden or a striking specimen in a container. Mature plants typically reach about 8 to 12 inches tall. Blood Lily is native to southern Africa and thrives in warm conditions. In the United States it performs beautifully as a summer flowering bulb in pots, patios, and sheltered garden beds. Gardeners in cooler climates can easily grow it as a container plant and bring it indoors before frost. After flowering, broad glossy green leaves emerge and help recharge the bulb for the following season. This is a plant for gardeners who like something bold and a little unexpected. It pairs well with tropical looking plants, ornamental grasses, or simple greenery that lets the flower take center stage. When grown from top sized bulbs, flowering is stronger, more reliable, and more impressive.