As a true child of the tropics, the Flame Lily (Gloriosa superba) craves warmth and humidity. While it’ll feel right at home in your summer garden or a cozy sunroom, this beauty is definitely not frost-hardy. If you want to see those stunning blooms again next year, you’ll need to give it a little extra TLC before the winter chill sets in.
Getting Ready for Dormancy
Once the flowering season wraps up around September, it’s time to prep your Flame Lily for its long nap. You can prune back any withered flowers, leaves, and stems to just above the soil line. If you’re more of a “hands-off” gardener, you can simply let the plant die back naturally; it will eventually retreat into the soil on its own. The most important thing to remember? As soon as those leaves start to drop, stop watering! If you have your Flame Lily planted in a container outdoors, you can also dig up the tubers and store them in a box of peat moss for the winter.
The Winter Rest Period
By September, the plant is already dreaming of its winter slumber. Make sure to move it indoors before the first frost hits. During this time, your Flame Lily is low-maintenance: no water, no fertilizer, and no light required. It prefers temperatures below 65°F (18°C). Once you’ve tucked the pot away, try not to move or disturb it. Great spots for overwintering include:
- Airy basements
- The garage
- Unheated hallways
- The attic
- A cool, dim spare bedroom
Waking Up Your Flame Lily
Come March, the tubers will start to stir, and you’ll see the first signs of new growth. This is your cue to bring the plant back into the light! Give it a quick check for any uninvited guests like aphids. If you spot any, a quick spray with a natural neem oil solution or mild soapy water usually does the trick.
If the plant has outgrown its home, now is the perfect time to repot with fresh soil. Lay the tuber horizontally about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 cm) deep. Be super careful with the growing tips—they’re fragile! Make sure they aren’t pointing downward. Place the pot in a bright spot near a window, but keep it out of harsh, direct sunlight for the first few days. Aim for a room temperature around 68°F (20°C).
Slowly get your plant used to the fresh air and sunshine. Once the threat of frost has passed (usually after Mother’s Day), your Flame Lily can head back out to the garden. Start watering again gradually, and hold off on the fertilizer until you see those new shoots really taking off!
