Cyrtanthus (ker-TAN-thus) is a flowering bulbous perennial belonging to the genus Cyrtanthus and the Amaryllidaceae (am-uh-ril-id-AY-see-ee) family, better known as the Amaryllis family. The genus Cyrtantus is also considered the Amaryllidaceae family’s largest genus.
The botanical or genus name Cyrtanthus is derived from the Greek word ‘kyrtos,’ which means curved, and the word ‘anthos,’ meaning flower. It also references the curved perianth tube or the floral envelope (consisting of sepals and petals) of many Cyrtanthus species.
This illustrious perennial bulb is native to the Cape Province of South Africa, and most Cyrtanthus species are endemic to eastern and southern parts of Africa.
They thrive in temperate and tropical zones and abundantly grow in rock crevices, banks of damp bushy streams, and desert locations. They are also known to grow on other plants as epiphytes.
Cyrtanthus is a show-stopper flowering plant that is well-known for its clusters of lustrously colored trumpet-shaped flowers and strap-shaped leaves.
Cyrtanthus is also known by its common names, including:
- Fire lily
- George lily
- Knysna lily
- Scarborough lily
The common name, Fire Lily, refers to this plant’s known ability to tolerate and flower immediately after being subjected to wildfires.
In addition, Cyrtanthus includes over 60 species of bulbous herbaceous plants, which differ significantly in a wide range of flower colors, shapes, sizes, and positions.
These bulbous plants are also highly valued horticulturally and could be classed into two categories: deciduous and evergreen.
Some of the recognized Cyrtanthus species are:
- Cyrtanthus angustifolius
- Cyrtanthus aureolinus
- Cyrtanthus bicolor
- Cyrtanthus breviflorus
- Cyrtanthus carneus
- Cyrtanthus clavatus
- Cyrtanthus debilis
- Cyrtanthus elatus
- Cyrtanthus epiphyticus
- Cyrtanthus erubescens
- Cyrtanthus falcatus
- Cyrtanthus flanaganii
- Cyrtanthus helictus
- Cyrtanthus labiatus
- Cyrtanthus mackenii
- Cyrtanthus macowanii
- Cyrtanthus obliquus
- Cyrtanthus spiralis
- Cyrtanthus ventricosus
- Cyrtanthus wellandii
Among all Cyrtanthus species, the two most popular are the Cyrtanthus elatus or the scarlet form with the old scientific name Vallota speciosa and the Cyrtanthus mackenii, also known as Ifafa Lily.
Quick Facts On Cyrtanthus Bulbs
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Light: Partial shade; Dappled Sunshine
- Temperature: 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Moderate watering; Moist, well-drained soil
- Fertilizer: Diluted Water-soluble Fertilizer
- Propagation: Through seeds or offsets
- Common Problems: Narcissus bulb fly, Bulb rot, Brown spots on leaves
Cyrtanthus Care
How Big Does Cyrtanthus Grow?
Cyrtanthus plants are fast-growing perennials, growing from 8″ to 30″ inches tall, depending on the species.
The small varieties can reach up to 8″ to 12″ inches tall, but the taller varieties that are often cultivated can grow up to 20″ to 30 inches.
Their bulbs vary in size, ranging from 1/2″ to 5″ inches in diameter.
Cyrtanthus species are classified into two categories according to their growth habit:
- Deciduous
- Evergreen
The deciduous species may be further classified into either summer growing or winter growing varieties.
In addition, Cyrtanthus plants reach maturity in 2 to 5 years.
When Does Cyrtanthus Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
Cyrtanthus features exquisite clusters or wreaths of brightly-colored trumpet- or tubular-shaped flowers that grow at the end of each tall, slightly twisted, green flower stem.
Each inflorescence has 4 to 12 blooms and may vary in colors, depending on the specific variety.
The colors of the flowers range from:
- White
- Yellow/Gold
- Orange
- Red/Burgundy
- Pink
Cyrtanthus flowers can also be scented or unscented, depending on the variety. Generally, the white, pink, yellow, or blood-red flowers have a faint but pleasing fragrance.
After flowering, their leaves will emerge directly from the bulb, producing up to 16 leaves per plant. Their leaves, about 12″ inches long and 3″ inches wide, also vary depending on the species.
For example, some species may have grass-like, strap-shaped, or spiral leaves, while others may have twisted or arching leaves. The leaves can also have a leathery or papery feel and have lanceolate or linear shapes.
The flowering period of Cyrtanthus plants also differs according to species: from early spring to fall.
The Cyrtanthus mackenii cooperi variety from the Ifafa lily species commonly shows up in spring with yellow blooms. In contrast, the Cyrtanthus angustfolius species blooms from May to June, producing striking red flowers with narrow green leaves.
Cyrtanthus obliquus, one of the easiest species to grow, flowers from March to August with red and yellow blooms, while Cyrtanthus sanguineus, with its fiery blood-red flowers, waits for the end of the summer to bloom.
Moreover, Cyrtanthus elatus, previously called Vallota Speciosa, buds in late summer or early fall. On the other hand, Cyrtanthus falcatus blooms during mid-spring.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Cyrtanthus plants thrive in tropical and temperate zones and are best planted in dappled sunlight or partial shade designations for sunlight from hot afternoon days.
Light filtering or shade through a leafy canopy all day is recommended for dappled sunlight, and 2 to 6 hours of direct sunlight (part of the day) is needed for partial shade.
They also do better in South–facing or West–facing locations.
The ideal temperature for Cyrtanthus plants during the growing season ranges from 65° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit.
However, the standard temperature should not reach below 50° degrees Fahrenheit in the winter.
In addition, the suitable growing conditions for these bulbous perennials are USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and 10.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Cyrtanthus?
Provide moderate to generous watering to Cyrtanthus plants during the active growing season, especially in the spring and summer, to keep the soil moist.
However, cut down on the watering frequency during winter dormancy but don’t let the soil be parched.
Fertilize your Cyrtanthus plants with a diluted water-soluble fertilizer every 2 weeks during its flowering season until the blooms cease.
What Is The Best Soil For Cyrtanthus, And When Should You Transplant?
Cyrtanthus plants grow best in a porous, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They also thrive in soil conditions of chalk, loam, or sand with neutral, alkaline, or slightly acidic pH levels.
If your soil needs to be amended, the recommended medium consists of equal parts of leaf mulch, peat moss, coarse sand, finely sifted compost, or silica sand.
These bulbous perennials must be repotted every 3 to 4 years, and it should be done between late spring and early summer.
Here are the following tips to keep in mind when transplanting:
- Ensure the Cyrtanthus plants are planted in a lightly shaded position with regular potting soil.
- Plant the bulbs with the necks slightly exposed above soil level.
- Do not disturb the bulbs for at least 5 years.
Does Cyrtanthus Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Cyrtanthus plants are easy-to-care-for and low-maintenance plants. They only need pruning, and you can simply remove dead leaves and withered stems as they begin to dry.
How To Propagate Scarborough Lily Plants?
Scarborough Lilies can be propagated via two propagation methods, namely:
- Seeds
- Division (bulbs, offsets)
For seed propagation, the seeds must be sown in early spring and placed in deep seed trays, covered with a sowing medium.
Usually, germination takes place within 4 weeks, and seedlings will flower during the 3rd season of growth under ideal conditions.
You can also divide the offsets from the mother bulb in early spring. Ensure the fleshy roots are not dried out, and the bulbs must be replanted immediately.
Fire Lily Pests And Disease Problems
Fire lilies are generally trouble-free plants, but they are prone to Narcissus bulb fly attacking bigger bulbs.
This pest is incredibly tricky because you may not notice any signs of infestation until their leaves die and the bulbs turn soft, which is an indication the fire lily bulbs are being eaten from the inside.
Use appropriate pesticides to treat the infestation, and follow the product instructions provided on the label.
If you also notice brown spots on the fire lily’s leaves, it’s most likely because of strong sunlight, that’s why it’s best to plant them in a lightly shaded location.
Uses Of Fire Lily
Fire lilies are widely grown and cultivated worldwide as ornamental and houseplants due to their showy, brightly-colored flowers.
Their showy blooms are often used as cut flowers for bouquets and plant compositions.
In addition, fire lilies make an excellent perennial plant grown in containers, hanging baskets, patios, and walkways to add spectacular visual blooms while offering a sweet, pleasing fragrance.
They also make an excellent companion plant and a design feature for wall-side borders, greenhouses, and gardens.