Forest Lily
Veltheimia bracteata
Also known as
Forest Sand-Lily, Winter Red Hot Poker, Boslelie, Sandui, Sandlelie (Afr.)
Photo by NatalieRS (All rights reserved)
Full Shade
Easy care
Light watering
Tender
10b
USDA zone
2°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
60cm | Max | 30cm |
30cm | Min | 20cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Forest Lily
Forest Lily Overview
The Forest lily is an exceptionally beautiful bulb plant, flowering in hues of pink and red. It is easy to grow and require little water and attention. Forest lilies bloom throughout winter until early spring. Being bird-pollinated, these flowers attract a multitude of birds to gardens. Veltheimia capensis is known as the Sand lily, growing in sandy patches in forest areas. ZA Distribution: Eastern Cape.
Common problems with Forest Lily
Apart from the occasional slug or snail, Forest lilies have no particular pests or diseases.
How to harvest Forest Lily
Pick flowers for the vase when in flower.
How to propagate Forest Lily
Seed
Propagation by seed is generally very successful. Bulbs must be planted during autumn, at or just below ground level, and left undisturbed for a long period. New bulbs should flower after one season.
Cuttings
Stems should be removed in summer, after foliage has died down. Plant immediately in 30 cm to 40 cm deep soil.
Special features of Forest Lily
Attracts birds
In warmer countries Hummingbirds are among the pollinators attracted to the garden by the Forest lily's bright flowers.
Indoor plant
May be planted indoors, but not in direct sunlight.
Pot plant
Forest Lilies make excellent pot plants, particularly when planted in shaded patios and windowsills.
Attractive leaves
Attracts butterflies
In cooler climes the Hummingbird Moth is attracted to these flowers.
Drought resistant
Attractive flowers
Flowers may be pale pink, deep rose pink, orange pink, occasionally greenish-yellow.
