Paintbrush Lily (Haemanthus albiflos)

Paintbrush Lily

Haemanthus albiflos

Its spherical white blooms look like fluffy paintbrushes against fleshy foliage. Clump-forming bulbous perennial; common names: Paintbrush Lily, White Blood Lily.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorching; tolerate low light temporarily
💧
Watering Allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot
🌡️
Temperature Thrives at 15–22°C; protect from frost below 10°C during dormancy
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, fleshy, glossy green oval leaves arranged in opposite basal pairs
  • Flower: Dense spherical white umbel inflorescence on a short, stout stalk; surrounded by white bracts
  • Bulb: Underground, fleshy bulb with thick, fibrous roots for water storage
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 4 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bulb health and flowering

Banana peel tea:Chop banana peels and soak in water for 3 days; dilute the tea 1:20 with water before applying as a root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to bulb growth
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain plant appearance
  • Repot bulbs every 2–3 years in spring; trim dead roots before repotting
  • Avoid disturbing the bulb during dormancy to prevent stress
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains lycorine, causing vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy

Humans: Contains lycorine alkaloids; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset; sap may irritate skin

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes purity and renewal due to its winter-spring blooms

Usage: Ornamental indoor container plant; suitable for windowsill displays