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How to Grow Bloodlily

Scadoxus multiflorus

Tender Warm Season

Bloodlily is a tender bulb grown for its spectacular spherical scarlet flower heads. Start bulbs in pots under glass in spring, barely covering with compost. Move outdoors after all frost risk has passed to a sheltered, sunny spot. Feed fortnightly and water regularly while in growth. After flowering the strap leaves persist — keep watering until they die back naturally. Lift bulbs before first frost, dry and store frost-free over winter.

When to Start

Best started from plugs, corms, or slips. Pot up indoors 4 weeks before last frost, then plant out once soil reaches 15°C.

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Growth Stages

Flowering
~75 days
Seed to harvest
~75 days

Approximate days from start

Care Essentials

  • Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks from when growth emerges until flowering.
  • The spectacular spherical flower head appears before or with the strap-like leaves. Do not disturb the bulb unnecessarily. Grows well in containers.

Growing Conditions

Min. soil temperature
15°C+

Pet Safety

Cats: Toxic
Dogs: Toxic

Don't know your frost date? Find it here

Spacing & Planting

Plant spacing 30 cm
Row spacing 40 cm
Mature height 60 cm
Mature spread 40 cm

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Growing Conditions

Min. soil temperature15°C
Base growth temperature12°C
Photoperiod sensitivityday neutral

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should I plant Bloodlily?
Plant Bloodlily 30cm apart with 40cm between rows.
When does Bloodlily flower?
Bloodlily typically flowers approximately 60 days after transplanting.
Is Bloodlily frost hardy?
Bloodlily is classified as Tender.

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