Blood lily Haemanthus coccineus
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as the blood lily has a striking and exotic appearance. It features lush, green leaves that emerge in a rosette fashion, with each leaf presenting a broad, tongue-like shape that elegantly arches outward from the central growing point. During its blooming season, the blood lily produces an extraordinary flower that commands attention. The flower consists of a dense, spherical cluster of small, red blossoms that sit atop a singular, sturdy stalk. This vibrant red globe of flowers offers a brilliant splash of color, making the plant a showstopper in any setting. The blooms exhibit a waxy texture and may have a faint sheen that glimmers in the light, enhancing their dramatic presentation. Amidst the blossoms, delicate yellow-tipped stamens protrude, providing a sharp contrast against the deep red petals and adding to the visual interest of the plant's display. Although seemingly exotic and tropical, the blood lily has a robustness that belies its delicate beauty, making it a fascinating plant for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Blood Lily, Paintbrush, April Fool, Football Lily, Powderpuff.
Common names
Haemanthus magnificus, Haemanthus natalensis, Haemanthus sanguineus, Haemanthus grandiflorus.
ToxicityTo humans
The Blood Lily, scientifically known as Haemanthus coccineus, is not known for being highly toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, sensitive individuals may experience mild stomach upset, nausea, or skin irritation if they ingest or handle parts of the plant. It is always advisable to avoid eating or handling unknown plants and to seek medical advice if any adverse reactions occur.
To pets
Blood Lily, while not widely known as a highly toxic plant, could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by pets such as dogs or cats. Symptoms of poisoning might include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. It is always a good practice to keep plants out of reach of pets and to consult a veterinarian if any signs of illness are observed after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Haemanthus coccineus, commonly known as Blood Lily, adds striking visual interest to gardens and homes with its bold, red flowers and lush green foliage.
- Low maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep, which makes it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
- Drought tolerance: Blood Lily has a level of drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in arid regions.
- Attracts pollinators: The bright flowers attract bees and other pollinators, thus supporting local ecosystems.
- Container gardening: It's well-suited to container planting, which allows for versatility in landscape design and the ability to grow indoors or on balconies.
- Seasonal interest: With its vibrant blooming season, it can provide a seasonal focal point or complement other plants in a garden scheme.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Haemanthus coccineus, commonly known as blood lily, can be used in floral arrangements due to its large, attractive red blooms which provide an exotic and tropical look.
- In some cultures, blood lily bulbs are used as a source of starch, although not commonly consumed.
- The plant's large leaves can be used as natural packaging material or as wraps for delicate items, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic wraps.
- Blood lily can be used in landscaping under trees for its ability to thrive in part shade and add a splash of color to darker areas.
- The bright red flowers of the blood lily may serve as visual guides to assist in teaching children or newcomers about native flora in regions where it naturally occurs.
- As a focal point in botanical art, the intricate structure of blood lily’s flower can be used to inspire designs in textiles and other visual arts.
- In ecologically-friendly garden designs, blood lily can provide essential nectar for pollinators when other plants are not in bloom, thereby supporting biodiversity.
- Blood lily can act as a natural pest deterrent in gardens due to its robust nature, potentially reducing the need for chemical pesticides in small-scale agriculture.
- The dried seed heads of blood lily, after pollen dispersal, can be used as natural ornaments or in creating unique pieces of jewelry.
- In educational settings, botany students can study the blood lily to understand bulbous plant growth cycles and the specific environmental conditions they require.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Blood Lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Blood Lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Haemanthus coccineus, also known as Blood Lily, often symbolizes resilience as it blooms from a bulb that survives in harsh conditions and remains dormant until the right time for growth — typically after a fire or when the climate is favorable.
- Protection: The Blood Lily, with its striking spherical bloom surrounded by sturdy leaves, can be seen as a symbol of protection — resembling a shield amidst the greenery, safeguarding its beauty.
- Rarity and uniqueness: This plant is a unique and uncommon sight in gardens, making it a symbol of rarity and the uniqueness of an individual or situation, due to its distinctive appearance when in bloom.
- Beauty and strength: The Blood Lily's impressive and vividly colored blooms not only symbolize beauty but also strength, as the plant showcases a stunning visual impact while emanating a sense of robustness and vitality.
WaterBlood lily should be watered generously during its active growth period in the spring and summer, providing about one gallon of water every week. It's crucial to let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. During the dormant period in the fall and winter, reduce watering to once a month, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightThe blood lily thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is near a window with a sheer curtain to diffuse direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.
TemperatureBlood lilies prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing the plant in areas where temperatures drop below 50 degrees since it is sensitive to cold drafts.
PruningPruning the blood lily is rarely required, but it can be done to remove any spent flowers or damaged leaves. The best time for pruning is after flowering has finished, and it should be done as needed rather than on a regular schedule.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the Blood Lily, a well-draining soil mix is crucial, consisting of equal parts loam, sand, and peat, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 to encourage healthy growth.
RepottingBlood Lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years or when the bulb outgrows its pot, typically after the dormancy period in late summer or early autumn.
Humidity & MistingBlood Lily thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%, which is beneficial for its growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place the Blood Lily in bright, indirect light and ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant Blood Lily in partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleHaemanthus coccineus, commonly known as the blood lily or paintbrush lily, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates to produce a small bulb. This primary bulb will grow and produce leaves that photosynthesize to provide energy for growth and development. After a period of vegetative growth, the bulb enters a dormant phase, often induced by a seasonal dry period, during which the leaves die back. When favorable conditions return, such as the onset of rain, the bulb breaks dormancy and produces a striking flower, typically red or orange in color, before the appearance of new leaves. Following pollination, which can occur through the actions of insects or birds, the flower develops into a fruit containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. These seeds can then be dispersed to give rise to new blood lily plants, continuing the species' life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Blood Lily, or Haemanthus coccineus, is generally propagated through division of offsets. The best time to propagate Blood Lilies is when the plant is dormant, which typically occurs after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer or early fall. To propagate, carefully lift the bulb from the soil after the leaves have died down and locate the offsets, which are small bulbs attached to the base of the mother bulb. Gently detach these offsets, taking care not to damage them or the main bulb. Once the offsets are separated, they can be planted individually in a well-draining potting mix at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters). Water the new plants sparingly until signs of growth appear, then gradually increase watering as the plant establishes itself. This method is renowned for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing new, genetically identical plants.
