Blood Lily Plant Care

Blood Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus) belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family within the Scadoxus genus. Blood Lily is native to most of sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal to Somalia to South Africa. Blood Lily is also known as African Blood Lily, Pincushion Lily.

Blood Lily displays a clumping perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1 inches. Blood Lily produces showy clusters of red or orange flowers on tall stems.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Scadoxus multiflorus requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Blood Lily thrives in bright indirect to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 1000–3000 lux. Avoid placing Blood Lily in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Scadoxus multiflorus grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Blood Lily prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining, rich soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Good drainage is essential for Blood Lily to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Blood Lily can be propagated through division of offsets, seeds.

Blood Lily is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Blood Lily grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. Native to most of sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal to Somalia to South Africa, Blood Lily is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Blood Lily as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.