Gloriosa

Gloriosa, also known as the Malabar Lily, Climbing Lily or Glory Lily, is a climbing tuberous plant from the Liliaceae family, originating from tropical regions and appreciated for its spectacular and exotic summer flowering. It grows rapidly, with its stems reaching nearly 2 metres (7 feet) in a single season. To cling to its support, the plant uses the tips of its bright green leaves, which form small tendrils. The large, flamboyant flowers always display shades of red and yellow, although they can be solid or bicoloured (Gloriosa rothschildiana), depending on the variety. Not hardy, Gloriosa can only be cultivated in the open ground in coastal regions unaffected by frost. Elsewhere, the tubers should be dug up in autumn and overwintered... just like cannas or dahlias. It is a perfect plant for decorating a veranda, a well-sheltered terrace, or a patio.