Blood Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus)

Blood Lily

Scadoxus multiflorus

Its spherical bloom bursts like crimson fireworks, a dramatic tropical standout. Bulbous flowering perennial; common name: Blood Lily.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid harsh midday direct sun which can scorch leaves
💧
Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot
🌡️
Temperature Thrives in 18–25℃; protect from temperatures below 10℃ to avoid bulb damage during dormancy
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Broad, strap-like green leaves with smooth margins, emerging after flowering
  • Flower: Dense spherical umbel of bright red, star-shaped florets atop a thick fleshy stem
  • Bulb: Underground tunicate bulb storing water and nutrients for dormancy
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering as flowering ends

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen feed to support bulb health and flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid pest infestations and odor
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stems at the base after blooming to redirect energy to bulb growth
  • Trim yellowing leaves at the base once they die back naturally during dormancy
  • Repot overcrowded bulbs in early spring; avoid disturbing the bulb’s root system excessively
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy

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

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes dramatic vibrancy in tropical garden design

Usage: Ornamental flowering plant for indoor containers or shaded outdoor garden beds