Blood flower Scadoxus multiflorus Fireball Lily

28/05/2010



The blood flower (Scadoxus multiflorus), also called Fireball Lily, Monsoon Lily or Poison Root, is a bulbous tropical plant of the Amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae). Scadoxus multiflorus (Martyn) Raf.1838 is native to Southern Africa
and is highly poisonous. The poison has been used in Africa, in conjunction with other plants, as an arrow poison, but is also used in african nature medicine. The spectacular flowerhead consists of up to 200 flowers and gets a diameter of about 15 - 20 cm. Flowering period: Summer (monsoon season).


The extraordinary, tropical plant requires warm temperatures, a location in semi shade to full shade and a well drained soil. Blood flower bulbs should be planted just below the ground and should be left undisturbed. The perennial, tropical plant isn´t hardy and will not tolerate freezing temperatures below 0° C.

Warning: All parts of the Blood flower (Scadoxus multiflorus) are highly poisonous

Blood flower, Scadoxus multiflorus, Fireball lily
© Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Blood flower (Scadoxus multiflorus), Fireball Lily, Poison Root
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee


{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }

Flower Advisor August 27, 2010 at 15:47

Something beautiful sometimes is poisonous, be careful lol.

Pat December 1, 2013 at 16:05

I really know that Christmas is coming when these spring up in my garden. My house and garden were set down in 1943 by wounded servicemen waiting out the war and there is a wide variety of plants that were planted for eating - Brazilian cherry, lilipilies and other natives - but also lots of bulbs, various lilies including the Cape York Lily. I am slowly getting to know the names of them.
So just discovered the beautiful fireball is poisonous. Any parts in particular or the whole thing? I have little grandchildren visiting from time to time and they love trying to sniff all my flowers.

THUAN PHAM December 22, 2013 at 03:29

i found this flower over 20 yrs.My grandpa got this flower in his garden.when i came to USA i wished to get this in my garden.my dream will come true if i get the flower, fireball lily .may you show me how i order fireball lily…..thank you

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