Crimson Flag Lily Hesperantha coccinea
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as crimson flag lily is a striking perennial that produces vibrant flowers. Its blooms exhibit an intense red or sometimes pink color, with the petals arranged in a tube-like fashion that flares out at the mouth into a star shape, creating an eye-catching display. Each individual flower is supported on a slender, erect stem which, in the right season, can carry multiple blossoms. The foliage of the crimson flag lily consists of sword-shaped leaves that are glossy and dark green in color. These leaves typically form a dense clump and can be quite lush, providing a rich background for the bright flowers. The contrast between the greenery and the red of the petals is particularly dramatic and lends the plant a bold visual appeal. Overall, the crimson flag lily has a robust and clumping habit, with its brilliant flowers blooming sequentially on the stems, making it a long-lasting addition to any garden display. It thrives in moist conditions and is commonly found by watersides or in areas with well-draining soil, blooming from late summer through fall, depending on its growing conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Crimson Flag, River Lily, Red Star
Common names
Schizostylis coccinea, Schizostylis coccinea var. major, Schizostylis coccinea f. alba, Schizostylis coccinea var. coccinea, Schizostylis major, Schizostylis coccinea var. genuina, Schizostylis coccinea f. coccinea.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Hesperantha coccinea is Crimson Flag. There is limited information available on the toxicity of Crimson Flag to humans. It is not commonly listed as a poisonous plant, and there are no well-documented cases or known specific toxins associated with this species that suggest a high risk of poisoning. However, as with many plants, it is still advisable to avoid ingestion because there may be individual allergies or unknown compounds that could cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort or more serious effects.
To pets
Crimson Flag, the common name for Hesperantha coccinea, also appears to have limited information regarding its toxicity to pets. It is not typically found on lists of plants known to be poisonous to domestic animals such as dogs and cats. This suggests that it is not considered highly toxic to pets. However, the absence of documented toxicity does not guarantee safety, and ingestion of any plant material could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some pets. Close observation and veterinary consultation are recommended if a pet consumes this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The River Lily offers vibrant red, pink, or white flowers that add color and aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is known for its hardiness and is relatively easy to cultivate, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Pollinator Attraction: The bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Long Blooming Season: The River Lily has a long flowering period from late summer to autumn, providing color in the garden when many other plants are fading.
- Mixed Border Use: It is well-suited for mixed borders, combining well with other perennials to create a diverse and vibrant garden display.
- Water-Loving Plant: It thrives in moist environments, making it an ideal plant for waterside plantings or for gardens that have wet soil conditions.
- Container Gardening: Hesperantha coccinea can be grown in containers, offering flexibility for those with limited garden space or who wish to decorate patios and balconies.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hesperantha coccinea, commonly known as the "Crimson Flag", can be used as a natural dye source, providing shades of red and orange when used on fabrics.
- The plant's sturdy stems can be incorporated into rustic crafts and floral arrangements, adding unique texture and color to handmade creations.
- Crimson Flag petals can serve as a natural confetti at outdoor celebrations, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials.
- The nectar-rich flowers of the Crimson Flag can be used to attract and support pollinators like bees and butterflies in a garden, promoting biodiversity.
- Due to its attractive blooms, the plant is ideal for themed gardens, such as a red garden or a late-season blooming garden, enhancing the visual appeal.
- Its rhizomatous growth habit allows the Crimson Flag to be used for erosion control on slopes or riverbanks where it can form dense clumps.
- The cut flowers of the Crimson Flag can be used in educational activities, teaching children about plant biology and pollination through hands-on experience.
- Photographers and artists may use the striking flowers of the Crimson Flag as a subject or inspiration for their work due to their vibrant color and form.
- The long flowering season of the Crimson Flag makes it useful for continuous bloom in succession planting, providing garden interest from late summer to autumn.
- The dried seed heads of the Crimson Flag can add an interesting visual element to dried flower arrangements or winter gardens when most other plants have died back.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant known as Crimson Flag is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Crimson Flag is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Love: Hesperantha coccinea, commonly known as the Crimson Flag, often symbolizes a lasting affection due to its vibrant and enduring flowers.
- Vitality: The bright red color of the flowers is associated with energy and vitality, representing a lively spirit and a zest for life.
- Resilience: As the Crimson Flag can withstand various conditions and bloom late into the season, it is seen as a symbol of resilience and the ability to overcome challenges.
WaterCrimson flag lily (Hesperantha coccinea) prefers consistently moist soil, so water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions, to maintain even moisture. During the growing season, particularly in dry spells, you may need to water more frequently; aim for about 1 to 1.5 gallons per week for established plants. Adjust the amount of water according to temperature and rainfall, decreasing watering in cooler months when the plant is not actively growing. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.
LightCrimson flag lily thrives in full sun to partial shade locations. The ideal spot for this plant would receive morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Ensure it gets at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
TemperatureThe crimson flag lily prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a range between 50°F and 90°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10, which means it can withstand minimum temperatures down to around 0°F. The ideal temperature for robust growth and flowering is between 60°F and 75°F.
PruningPrune crimson flag lily after flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage a second flush of flowers. Also, trim back the foliage in late fall or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning once or twice a year, typically after the main blooming period, promotes plant health and optimal blooming the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe River Lily (Hesperantha coccinea) thrives in moist, well-draining soil with a rich organic content. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat or compost, and one part sharp sand or perlite creates an ideal soil composition. The optimal pH range for River Lily is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingRiver Lily (Hesperantha coccinea) typically doesn't require frequent repotting. It should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingRiver Lily (Hesperantha coccinea) prefers moderate to high humidity levels, but is adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity conditions in the garden.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep River Lily in bright, indirect light and moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist, well-drained soil, and shelter.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleHesperantha coccinea, commonly known as Crimson Flag or River lily, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist soil conditions, typically in early spring. As a bulbous perennial plant, it sends out shoots that develop into long, slender leaves and grows in clumps. Throughout the summer, the plant accumulates nutrients and energy in its bulb for the next growing season. In late summer to fall, it produces striking, star-shaped flowers that are usually red but can also be pink or white, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing seeds, which when mature, are dispersed in the environment, completing the reproductive cycle. As winter approaches, the aerial parts of the plant die back to ground level, leaving the bulb dormant until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
The most popular method for propagating Hesperantha coccinea, commonly known as the crimson flag lily, is by division. Propagation by division is ideally done in the spring as the plant emerges from dormancy. To divide, carefully lift the clump of the plant from the soil with a garden fork or spade. Gently shake off the excess soil and tease apart the rhizomes to create new sections, making sure each section has at least one growth point or shoot. The new divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced about 12 inches (roughly 30 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. Water the new plants thoroughly to help establish them in their new location. This method allows gardeners to create new plants that are genetically identical to the parent and will usually flower the following season.
