RECOMMENDED USDA GROWING ZONES: 10–11
1. Choose the right location
Choose a location with fertile, well-drained soil and approximately 6–8 hours of sunlight per day. Gloriosa lilies perform well in full sun to partial shade, but in hot southern climates they benefit from having their vines in the sun while their roots remain relatively cool and shaded. Some protection from intense afternoon sun can also be beneficial.
Gloriosa is a climbing plant rather than a self-supporting lily. If you want the vines to climb, install a sturdy 6–8-foot trellis or other support before planting to avoid disturbing the tubers later.
2. Prepare the soil and support
Plant in spring after the soil has warmed and the danger of frost has passed. Prepare loose, fertile soil that drains freely. Incorporating compost or other organic matter can improve soil structure, drainage, and moisture retention while providing nutrients as it breaks down.
Position the climbing support securely before planting. Gloriosa vines climb using curling tendrils at the tips of their leaves, so a trellis, wire support, or similar structure with relatively narrow points for the tendrils to grasp works especially well.
3. Plant your tubers
Handle Gloriosa tubers carefully because their growing tips can be damaged if broken.
Plant each tuber horizontally on its side, approximately 2–4 inches deep. If using a trellis, position the tubers about 3–4 inches from the support so the emerging vines can reach it easily.
Space tubers approximately 6–8 inches apart. Cover them with soil and gently firm the surface to eliminate large air pockets without compacting the soil heavily.
4. Water and train the vines
Water after planting to settle the soil around the tubers. As growth begins, keep the soil moderately and consistently moist while allowing excess water to drain freely. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can encourage tuber rot.
As the vines grow, gently guide them toward the trellis or support. The plant's leaf-tip tendrils will begin attaching themselves as they encounter suitable supports. Avoid forcing or sharply bending the delicate stems.
Gloriosa lilies grow rapidly in warm weather and can eventually reach approximately 6–8 feet tall when conditions and support are suitable.
5. Care for your Gloriosa after flowering
Gloriosa lilies produce their distinctive red, orange, and yellow flame-like flowers during the warm growing season. After flowering, allow the foliage to remain in place and continue growing until it naturally begins to yellow and die back. This allows the plant to replenish the underground tubers for the following season.
Gloriosa is reliably winter hardy outdoors primarily in USDA Zones 10–11. In Zone 9, established tubers may overwinter with substantial winter mulch in protected locations, but cold damage remains possible.
In colder climates, grow Gloriosa as a summer plant and lift the tubers after the foliage dies back and before freezing conditions. Allow them to dry, then store them dormant in a dry, frost-free location for replanting the following spring.
Safety note:
Gloriosa lily is poisonous if ingested, particularly the tubers, which contain high concentrations of colchicine and related compounds. Do not consume any part of the plant, and keep tubers and plant material away from children and pets! Wash your hands after handling damaged tubers or plant material.
