PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full to partial sun; provide afternoon shade in extremely hot tropical climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist throughout growing season; avoid waterlogging but do not allow the root ball to dry out completely
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; protect from temperatures below 12°C to prevent frost damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Lanceolate, bright green leaves with tendril-like tips for climbing support
- Flower: Six reflexed petals in red-yellow gradient, twisted, flame-shaped blooms
- Stem: Slender, herbaceous twining stems that attach to supports via leaf tendrils
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistent soil moisture; mist foliage occasionally to boost humidity
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization during winter dormancy to avoid nutrient burn
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Remove spent flower heads to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season
- Trim dead or yellowing stems and leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Train twining vines onto a trellis or support structure to maintain growth form and prevent overcrowding
- Cut back dormant stems to 10 cm above soil level in late winter before new growth emerges
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, organ dysfunction, and possible fatalities
Humans: Contains colchicine alkaloids; ingestion causes severe organ damage, potentially fatal even in small doses
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: National flower of Zimbabwe; symbolizes beauty paired with inherent danger due to its toxicity
Usage: Ornamental climbing vine for gardens or containers; strictly avoided for culinary or medicinal use without expert supervision
