Glory Lily

Credit: Internationaal Bloembollen Centrum, Hillegom Holland

This exotic plant, originally found in wooded regions near rivers in Africa and India, requires lots of light, but won’t tolerate direct summer sun. The most suitable place for it is a sunny location near a window or in a sunroom, as long as the temperature doesn’t drop below 17°C (63°F).

This is the time of year to plant the tubers, but handle them carefully, as they may irritate the skin. Plant one to three in a 20 cm (8 in.) pot. The tubers should lie flat and be about 5 cm (2 in.) below the surface of the soil. Moisten the soil well and place the pot in a warm location.

Allow this tropical vine to grow upward, supported on canes or a trellis. Water regularly and fertilize every week. Eight weeks after flowering ends, stop watering and let the plant wither back. Store tubers at room temperature during the winter, in a safe place, as they are highly toxic if ingested.

Here are a few extra tips from the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Centre:
• If the buds on the plant turn brown, the plant is not receiving sufficient light;
• If the leaves turn brown, you have probably over-watered;
• Never prune the plant during its growth period;
• During nice weather (when the temperature is warmer than 20°C/68°F) the plant can be placed outside; however, be extremely careful when moving it – if the plant is broken, it will stop growing.