Plant care guide
Royal paintbrush or African blood lily
Scadoxus puniceus · Amaryllidaceae
A clump-forming bulb with broad, wavy leaves and vivid spherical red flower heads. Grow in bright filtered light or gentle morning sun, with fertile, well-drained soil. Keep it moderately moist during active growth, then allow a drier rest after flowering and as foliage declines.
Plant care
- Light
- Bright filtered light or partial shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun.
- Watering
- About once weekly during active growth, adjusting for rainfall and soil conditions; reduce watering during dormancy. Push a finger 5–7 cm into the soil. Water when that layer feels mostly dry, then let excess water drain away.
- Soil
- Rich, loose, well-drained soil with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Humidity
- Moderate to high humidity with good air circulation.
- Temperature
- Warm conditions, ideally 18–28°C; protect from frost and cold, wet soil.
- Toxicity
- The bulbs and other parts may be poisonous if eaten and can cause irritation; keep away from children and pets.