Blood flower - Haemanthus coccineus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Blood flower

Also known as: Paintbrush lily, Spotted bloodlily, Paintbrush

Blood flower (Haemanthus coccineus) is a flowering perennial that is grown from a bulb. It will grow to 36 cm tall with short brown stems and large flowers. It blooms in spring and summer with large bright red flowers. Translucent berries ripen after flowers finish blooming. Commonly found growing in large masses under shrubs and trees for protection.

Scientific classification

Species

Blood flower (Haemanthus coccineus)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

35 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

White

Fruit Color

Pink, Red, Orange

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Blood flower

Distribution of Blood flower

Distribution Map

Blood flower is native to the southern parts of the African continent and demonstrates a natural presence in the region's diverse ecologies. Beyond its indigenous range, blood flower has been introduced and cultivated elsewhere, adapting to new settings far from its original habitat. The plant thrives both in the wild within its native ecosystem and in cultivated environments as an ornamental species.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Haemanthus coccineus and Haemanthus sanguineus were the first blood lilies (the species of the Haemanthus genus) to be brought to Europe from Southern Africa, and they have been very popular ornamental plants ever since. Haemanthus coccineus was also the first African flower to appear illustrated in a European publication. The illustration was made by the Flemish botanist de L'Obel in 1605.

Name Story

Blood flower: The name of the blood flower refers to the color of the scarlet red flowers. Even its botanical name refers to this striking characteristic - the name Haemanthus coccineus was derived from the Greek 'haima', meaning ‘blood’, and 'anthos', meaning ‘a flower’.

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Care Guide for Blood flower

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Blood flower thrives in semi-arid habitats and is drought-tolerant, needing minimal watering—once every two weeks. It flourishes outdoors with adequate light and manages water reserves during dormancy, ensuring survival in moisture-scarce conditions.

Fertilize: Fertilizing blood flower enhances growth and flowering. Use balanced fertilizer monthly during growth and high phosphorus before blooming. Water blood flower after fertilizing to prevent root burn, and reduce feeding frequency during dormancy. Avoid over-fertilization for optimal results.

Pruning: Blood flower develops bulbous clusters featuring red flowers. Prune early to late spring after blooming to eliminate dead leaves and promote growth. Deadheading enhances appearance. Handle bulbs carefully to avoid disturbance. Regular pruning supports healthy foliage and more vibrant blooms in the next season.

Propagation: Originating from South Africa, blood flower is recognized for its striking red flowers. Propagate by carefully dividing tubers, and plant in well-draining, organic-rich soil. Maintain moisture to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, ensuring healthy roots and preventing rot.

Repotting: Repot blood flower every 2-3 years in late summer, using a slightly larger pot for its thick roots to enhance drainage. After repotting, keep the soil moist and provide indirect light to promote recovery, allowing blood flower to thrive with proper care.

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