Paintbrush - Haemanthus albiflos (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Paintbrush

Also known as: White paintbrush

The paintbrush is one out of a group of flower species native to South Africa. This group gets its scientific name (Haemanthus) from the Greek words for "blood lily," in recognition of their red flowers. Paintbrush is known for bearing fruit that smells musty. It has also spread around the world as a popular succulent, because it doesn't require much light to grow.

Scientific classification

Species

Paintbrush (Haemanthus albiflos)

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

Perennial

Lifespan

15 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Orange

Fruit Color

White, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Paintbrush

Distribution of Paintbrush

Distribution Map

Paintbrush is native to Southern Africa and thrives in regions characterized by a Mediterranean climate. It has been introduced and is cultivated in various temperate zones across the globe. While it adapts well to cultivation outside its native range, it is not typically deemed invasive.

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

Coast, mountains, garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Interesting Facts

Native to South Africa, Haemanthus albiflos is the only Haemanthus species that can be found in both the winter and summer rainfall regions. It is an easy-to-grow plant that is drought tolerant and a real show-off in the garden. The unusual flowers are true show stoppers and attract all sorts of bees, moths and butterflies.

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

Toxicity

Paintbrush is moderately toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion of any part can cause poisoning, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Immediate veterinary attention is essential if poisoning 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 Paintbrush

Broad, rough-edged leaves measuring 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) in length.

Opposite leaves resting flat on the ground, multiple years of foliage coexisting.

Tight umbels with numerous small white flowers, conspicuous white stamens with yellow anthers.

White bracts lined with green enclosing flowers, leading to attractive red fruits.

Resilient to frost down to mid-20 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 to -6 degrees Celsius).

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 Paintbrush

Every 2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Paintbrush prefers consistent moisture and moderate humidity, tolerating brief dryness. Water every two weeks to match its water storage capabilities. As an evergreen, it retains foliage year-round, necessitating careful watering during the active growth phase for optimal leaf health.

Fertilize: To enhance paintbrush's health, use high phosphorus fertilizers for root and bloom support. Fertilize quarterly in spring/summer and biannually in fall/winter, applying diluted solutions carefully. Avoid over-fertilization, and adjust based on paintbrush's response for optimal growth and flowering.

Pruning: Paintbrush features unique foliage and blooms. Prune in late winter to early spring, removing dead leaves and old stems to encourage growth and flowering. This practice improves air circulation and reduces disease risks. Always use clean tools to maintain plant health.

Propagation: Paintbrush is a bulbous perennial requiring well-draining soil and moderate watering. For propagation, separate offsets from the mother bulb during repotting, ensuring each has roots. Plant the divisions just below the soil surface and water sparingly until new growth indicates establishment.

Repotting: Repot paintbrush every 2-3 years after its dormant phase in late winter. Use a slightly larger container, as excess space can hinder blooming. Provide bright, indirect light and resume watering a week post-repotting to prevent root rot, enhancing paintbrush's ornamental beauty.

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