Forest lily

Winter red hot poker (Eng.), Boslelie (Afr.)

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.

Planning

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering time

Winter

Fruiting time

Winter, Spring

Harvesting

Pick flowers for the vase when in flower.

Propagation

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

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.

Attracts butterflies

In cooler climes the Hummingbird Moth is attracted to these flowers.

Geography

Origin

South Africa, Eastern Cape, Southern Cape

Natural climate

Temperate

Environment

Light

Partial Sun

Soil moisture

Dry

Soil type

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil PH preference

Acid, Neutral

Frost hardiness

Half-Hardy

Personality

Family

Hyacinthaceae

Flower colour

Pale pink, deep rose pink, orange pink, occasionally greenish-yellow

Scent

None

Problems

Apart from the occasional slug or snail, Forest lilies have no particular pests or diseases.

Slugs

Deroceras sp.

Snails

Cornu aspersum