Flame lily - Gloriosa superba (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Flame lily

Also known as: Climbing lily, Fire lily, Glory lily, Cat's claw

Flame lily (Gloriosa superba) is a climbing flowering plant also known as the tiger claw, fire lily, and creeping lily. Flame lily attracts sunbirds and butterflies. This plant is extremely toxic when ingested.

Scientific classification

Species

Flame lily (Gloriosa superba)

Lilies, supplejacks and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Vine

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

1.5 m to 2 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

10 cm to 20 cm

Flower Size

Red, Yellow, Orange

Fruit Color

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Flame lily

Distribution of Flame lily

Distribution Map

Flame lily is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, flourishing across large parts of these continents. The plant is also natively found in regions of South and Southeast Asia. In terms of its introduced range, flame lily has been cultivated and naturalized in areas of the Pacific, as well as the northern parts of South America.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Brushwood, hedges, open forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Its vibrant ornamental flowers are the main draw of the climbing flame lily, and they grow during the summer and fall. This plant can be grown against trellises or walls as long showy vines, or used as low-growing ground cover in tropical or informal cottage gardens. It can be grown in pots to decorate patios and city gardens.

Symbolism

Passion, proud, honor and glory, purity and beauty

Interesting Facts

All parts of the flame lily are toxic and potentially fatal if ingested. It has reportedly been used in murders, suicides, and as a poison on the tips of hunting arrows. To make matters worse, the tubers can sometimes be mistaken for sweet potatoes or yams. Some cultures consider the flame lily to be magical, and include it in religious rituals.

Name Story

Flame lily: Nearly all of the flame lily's English-language common names are quite obvious once you have seen the flower itself. These include glory lily, fire lily, tiger claw, and cat's claw. Even the scientific name, Gloriosa superba, has an obvious English translation that praises the plant's visual grandeur.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Flame lily, including the following common varieties :

Flame lily 'Greenii'

Toxicity

Flame lily is extremely toxic and can be lethal to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested or touched. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, convulsions, and organ failure. Even small amounts of flame lily pollen are harmful to cats, causing symptoms like seizures and dehydration. Immediate veterinary treatment is essential if exposure is suspected.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Flame lily

Long tendril-like apex aids climbing

Flowers with unique 6-parted form and vibrant colors

Fruit is a 3-parted explosive capsule for seed dispersal

Sessile leaves with slender tendrils, resembling Nepenthes

Distinctive transition in fruit color from green to brown

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Flame lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from tropical regions, flame lily thrives in high humidity and consistent moisture. Water weekly, mimicking its natural habitat. During active growth, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for optimal flowering, as its watering needs are closely tied to its growth cycle.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and blooms, flame lily requires balanced fertilizers, particularly high in phosphorus during the growing season. Monthly applications are advised, reducing frequency in winter. Liquid fertilizers allow for accurate control. Use gloves as flame lily is toxic; follow label instructions to avoid root damage.

Pruning: Flame lily thrives with early to late spring pruning, focusing on dead or damaged stems and overlong vines. This practice aligns with its growth cycle, promoting robust growth and flowering while preventing disease and pests, ensuring overall vigor and beauty.

Propagation: Flame lily features striking, flame-like flowers and can be propagated via division. During dormancy, separate tubers, ensuring each has a growth point. Allow cut surfaces to dry to prevent rot, and plant them at a depth up to three times their size for best results.

Repotting: Flame lily requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging, ensuring healthy root development and overall plant vitality.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free