Gloriosa Simplex
Gloriosa superba L. (syn. Gloriosa simplex L.)
Gloriosa simplex, now classified under Gloriosa superba, is one of the most dramatically beautiful climbing plants in the world. Its blazing reflexed petals of red, orange, and yellow and long, radiating stamens resemble living flames. It is the national flower of Zimbabwe, the state flower of Tamil Nadu, and a powerful symbol of glory, passion, and the triumph of beauty.
Colchicaceae (Autumn Crocus family)
Late spring through autumn (May to October); blooms continuously in favorable conditions
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gloriosa superbas and hibiscuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Gloriosa superba (including the form known as Gloriosa simplex) is one of the most symbolically loaded flowers on earth. It is the national flower of Zimbabwe, where it is a protected plant; it is the state flower of Tamil Nadu in India; and it was designated as the flower of Tamil Eelam. A diamond brooch in its shape was given to the future Queen Elizabeth II during a royal visit to Southern Rhodesia in 1947. The genus name Gloriosa comes directly from the Latin gloriosus, meaning glorious, ostentatious, or famous, a name given in direct celebration of its extraordinary flowers. In Tamil, the flower is called Karthigaipoo because it blooms during the Tamil month of Karthigai (November to December), linking it to one of the most celebrated festivals of the Tamil calendar. In Africa it is called the fire lily and is said to be the source of all life in Zimbabwe. Its blazing, reflexed petals, seeming to burn with internal fire, have made it an enduring symbol of the audacity and triumph of natural beauty.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun; some afternoon shade in very hot climates is beneficial
Water
Consistent moisture during the growing season; allow to dry completely during winter dormancy to prevent tuber rot; water generously once growth resumes
Soil
Fertile, Well-drained, Rich in organic matter, Sandy loam, Tolerates poor soils
Expert Growing Tips
Plant tubers horizontally 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) deep after the last frost date in rich, well-drained soil
Handle tubers with extreme care; they are very brittle and snap easily
CRITICAL WARNING: All parts of the plant, especially the tubers, are extremely toxic; they contain high levels of colchicine which can be fatal if ingested; always wear gloves when handling and keep away from children and pets
Provide a thin-wire trellis or nearby shrub for the tendrils to grip; stems cannot attach to thick posts or chunky wood
Do not try to redirect or retrain stems; handling stops growth temporarily
After bloom, lift and dry tubers before first frost and store in a dry medium; alternatively, leave in containers year-round and move indoors for winter
Propagate by seed or by carefully dividing rhizomes no more than every three years
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spectacular climbing accent plant for trellises, fences, and arbors
- Container plant for patios and heated conservatories in cooler climates
- Cut flower with long vase life; popular in wedding and corsage work
- Exotic focal point in tropical and subtropical garden beds
- Cottage and country garden trellis planting
Traditional Uses
- CRITICAL: Highly toxic; all parts contain colchicine and related alkaloids; never use medicinally without expert medical supervision
- Used in traditional medicines in Africa and India for a range of conditions including joint pain, fever, and skin conditions; ALWAYS seek professional guidance
- A diamond brooch in the shape of the flame lily was gifted to the future Queen Elizabeth II by Southern Rhodesia in 1947, now part of the British royal collection
- Colchicine extracted from Colchicaceae plants is used in modern medicine for gout and certain inflammatory conditions under medical supervision
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gloriosa Simplex
What is the relationship between Gloriosa simplex and Gloriosa superba?
Gloriosa simplex is now considered a synonym of Gloriosa superba. Modern taxonomic research concluded that what was historically called Gloriosa simplex, which typically refers to the orange and yellow form with slightly smaller flowers, falls within the natural variation of Gloriosa superba. The species is now recognized under the single name Gloriosa superba, with Gloriosa simplex treated as a synonym.
Is Gloriosa lily toxic?
Yes, Gloriosa is one of the most toxic garden plants in the world. All parts of the plant, particularly the tubers, contain very high levels of colchicine and related alkaloids. Ingestion can be fatal. Always wear gloves when handling, wash hands thoroughly afterward, and keep the plant away from children and pets. Even water that has held cut gloriosa flowers can be toxic.
What does the Flame Lily symbolize?
The Flame Lily symbolizes glory, passion, pride, and the triumph of beauty. Its genus name Gloriosa means glorious in Latin, a name given in direct celebration of its extraordinary flowers. In Zimbabwe, where it is the national flower, it is said to be the source of all life. In Tamil culture it is associated with the Karthigai festival celebrating light and fire.
How does Gloriosa climb?
Gloriosa climbs by means of specialized tendrils at the tips of its leaves, which curl and grip onto nearby plants, thin wires, or other slim supports. The plant cannot attach to thick posts or chunky wooden trellises. It scrambles up through and over other plants in its natural habitat, reaching up to 4 meters (13 feet) in height.
Which countries honor Gloriosa as a national or state flower?
Gloriosa superba is the national flower of Zimbabwe, where it is a legally protected species. It is also the state flower of Tamil Nadu, India, where it blooms during the Tamil month of Karthigai and is known as Karthigaipoo. It was additionally designated as the flower of Tamil Eelam by the LTTE.
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