Flame Lily Vine
Gloriosa superba
Flame Lily is a spectacular climbing lily from tropical Africa and Asia, producing extraordinarily exotic flowers with reflexed flame-colored petals in blazing shades of red, orange, and yellow. It is the national flower of Zimbabwe and one of the most visually dramatic flowers in the natural world.
Colchicaceae (Autumn crocus family)
Summer (June–September in Northern Hemisphere); late spring to summer in tropical climates
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gloriosa superbas and hibiscuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Flame Lily holds the highest national symbolic status as the official national flower of Zimbabwe, where it is protected by law and may not be picked from the wild. Its blazing, upswept petals are seen as a symbol of the country's fire, glory, and resilience. In India, Gloriosa superba is the state flower of Tamil Nadu and holds significance in tribal and Ayurvedic traditions across the subcontinent, though its toxicity gives it a dual character — revered and feared simultaneously. The flower's extraordinary form — appearing to burn at the tips of its reflexed petals — has made it a universal symbol of ambition and the aspiration to reach ever higher. In Sri Lanka, it is considered a plant of both beauty and danger, deeply embedded in folklore.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun with afternoon shelter in very hot climates
Water
Moderate during growing season; reduce as foliage dies back; tubers require a dry dormant period in winter
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy loam, Fertile, Humus-rich, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant tubers horizontally 3–4 inches (8–10 cm) deep in spring after all frost danger has passed
Handle tubers with great care — they are extremely brittle and all parts of the plant are highly toxic
Provide a trellis or support from the outset as the vine climbs rapidly using its tendril-tipped leaves
In temperate climates, lift tubers after foliage dies back in autumn and store dry and frost-free over winter
Water consistently during growth but allow soil to dry between waterings to prevent tuber rot
Do not plant near edible gardens — all parts of Gloriosa superba are acutely toxic if ingested
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Statement climber on trellises, fences, and obelisks
- Container specimen on patios in cooler climates
- Exotic cut flower for special arrangements
- Conservatory or glasshouse climber in temperate regions
- Tropical and exotic-themed garden plantings
- Show and exhibition flower
Traditional Uses
- Despite extreme toxicity, Gloriosa superba has significant uses in traditional and modern medicine: the tubers contain colchicine, a compound used pharmaceutically to treat gout and certain cancers
- Used in Ayurvedic and African traditional medicine for treating arthritis, snakebite, and skin parasites — though with great caution due to toxicity
- Colchicine derived from Gloriosa is also used in plant breeding to induce polyploidy
- Note: all parts of the plant are acutely toxic and potentially fatal if ingested; no safe home medicinal use
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Flame Lily Vine
What does the Flame Lily symbolize?
Flame Lily symbolizes glory, pride, and bold ambition. As the national flower of Zimbabwe it represents the nation's fire and resilience. Its dramatically reflexed, flame-like petals universally evoke passion, the aspiration to reach higher, and the blazing energy of achievement.
Is Flame Lily poisonous?
Yes, Flame Lily (Gloriosa superba) is acutely toxic — all parts of the plant, especially the tubers, contain high levels of colchicine and other alkaloids that can be fatal if ingested even in small amounts. It should always be handled with gloves, kept away from children and pets, and never planted near edible gardens.
What country has the Flame Lily as its national flower?
Zimbabwe. Gloriosa superba is the national flower of Zimbabwe, where it is legally protected and may not be uprooted or picked from the wild. It is also the state flower of Tamil Nadu, India, reflecting its cultural significance across both African and Asian traditions.
Is Flame Lily a true lily?
Despite its common name, Flame Lily is not a true lily. True lilies belong to the genus Lilium in the family Liliaceae, while Gloriosa superba belongs to the Colchicaceae family. It is, however, a monocot and shares the characteristic six tepals of lily-like flowers, which accounts for the common name.
How do I grow Flame Lily?
Plant the fragile, finger-shaped tubers horizontally in well-drained soil after the last frost in spring. Provide a support structure immediately for the climbing stems. Water consistently but avoid waterlogging. In temperate climates, lift tubers after the foliage dies back in autumn and store them dry and frost-free until the following spring.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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