8/22/2023 0 Comments Fire ball plantThat would mean: bulbs planted just below soil level, with excellent drainage supplied with plenty of water while in active growth kept hot and dry in dormancy and best left undisturbed for many years. However, the blood lily can be grown in the ground in frost-free climates if the conditions are similar to its tropical homeland. Here, in my Midwest garden, I grow my blood lilies in containers filled with a good commercial potting mix. But thus far, no winged critter has taken it upon itself to pollinate my plants. If pollinated, some stems produce small, round, bright orange-red fruits, which contain several seeds that, when planted fresh, can take up to six months to germinate. Spectacular flowersĪiry, alien looking, orange-red balls about the size of a small beach ball (up to 10 inches in diameter), consisting of numerous tiny flowers – up to 200, I’m told, but I haven’t actually counted them – each with miniscule yellow stamens) explode upon the scene in early summer on stout, solid, 1-foot stalks.Īfter bloom, rosettes of textured, glossy, dark green leaves arise atop speckled stalks, making it a fascinating and decorative foliage plant for months to come. Since they're hardy only to USDA Zone 8, I grow them in containers, where, when in full bloom, they drive visiting hummingbirds absolutely crazy – and the hummers' antics, in trying to figure out this curious plant, keep all on-lookers greatly entertained. It belongs to the Amaryllis family, and I treat it as such. This blood lily is one of about 50 species of Scadoxus from central and southern Africa, but only a few are available in this country. That alone is worth the price of the bulbs. But when in full flower, it is an amazing conversation piece, stopping all friends and visitors dead in their tracks. And yes, it blooms for only two short weeks, or less. A dazzling, though somewhat bizarre-looking plant, there is, nevertheless, something special about it. The first to come in is the blood lily ( Scadoxus multiflorus, formerly Haemanthus multiflorus), also known as the powder-puff lily, African blood lily, fire-ball lily, and football lily. (4 to 9 C) at night in my area, it is time to start bringing in the tropical plants that I typically overwinter indoors. With the latest predictions of temperatures dropping to the high 40s F. Temperature: Neoregelia Fireball can tolerate minimum winter temperatures of just above 0 degrees Celsius.For flashy, spherical, red blossoms indoors or out, the blood lily is a rare and unusual South African container plant. Plants grown epiphytically will require more frequent watering particularly during very hot spells.įertiliser: Use a balanced water soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength once a month during spring and summer. Remember if you are unsure as to whether to water or not, rather keep the plant on a drier side as overwatering can lead to fungal problems which can kill a plant quickly. The frequency of watering will vary according to the season. Always ensure that there is water in your Bromeliad’s tank, cup or reservoir. When watering, water your plant thoroughly, then allow to dry out before watering again. Watering: Many Bromeliads are surprisingly water wise. A combination of a good quality potting soil with the addition of either coco peat, pine bark or perlite is recommended. When growing your plant in containers, it is also important to ensure that your soil is light, airy and free draining. We recommend the addition of compost or fine bark to the planting area. Soil: Generally Bromeliads which grow terrestrially, require good drainage and like to grow in soil which is airy and fast draining. Generally, plants with tough leathery leaves enjoy a lot of sun, while plants with softer leaves prefer partial or dappled shade. Light is a very important factor to consider when growing Neoregelia as this in most cases affects the coloration of the foliage. When grown in heavy shade or low light conditions the red fades gradually and eventually the leaves will turn green. Light: Neoregelia Fireball is best grown in morning or late afternoon sun, avoiding the midday sun or in very bright indirect light. Tips for growing your plant successfully:
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