You can grow Scadoxus multiflorus (syn. Haemanthus multiflorus) in a pot or container or in the ground, however you do need to provide proper care for it to thrive. Also known as The Blood Lily or African Blood Lily this is plant that is grown for the spectacular red flowers.
The main factors are potting soil light, watering and temperature, however fertiliser, re-potting and control of pests also need to be considered.
In terms of climate, USDA zones 9 – 12 are suitable as long as you provide the appropriate conditions. You can grow Scadoxus Multiflorus indoors in cooler zones. overwinter indoors, move to sunny warm position in summer.
Scadoxus Multiflorus Care
- Potting Soil
Scadoxus Multiflorus requires good drainage so use a free draining potting mix and a pot with good drainage holes. You can add a little bone meal to the potting mix if needed - Watering
Watering is determined by the growth cycle, Scadoxus Multiflorus is in active growth from spring through summer, after this is goes into dormancy. So regular watering commences at the first sign of new growth.
Water the plant deeply and then allow the soil to dry before watering again.
When you are reaching winter, and cooler temperatures, cut back on watering. Perhaps a little water once a month. - Light
This is a plant that naturally grows in light shade, with more sun in winter. Hot direct sun will cause foliage damage. - Temperature
The best temperature range is 15 – 27 C with nighttime temperature dropping to around 5C. Avoid frosts as this will cause foliage damage and freezes can kill the plant. - Fertiliser
The simplest way to fertilise is to use a general purpose slow release fertiliser in spring.
You can improve growth by using a soft nitrogen fertiliser for growth and using a sulphate of potash fertiliser in the months before flowering. You could also use a liquid fertiliser. - Re – potting
Potting soil becomes exhausted in a few years, so repot your Scadoxus into fresh soil every year or every second year.
Pests
The usual pests including mealybug and spider mites can be problem.
- Mealybugs hide beneath the leaves so check for them and remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol as they appear.
- Spider mites can often be just wiped away with a damp cloth.
Propagation
Easiest by removing offsets or pups immediately after flowering remember to replant them immediately.
Similar Plants
- Scadoxus
- Scadoxus puniceus
- Look for Scadoxus multiflorus ssp. katherinae which has pink flowers and a shorter dormancy.