The Gloriosa superba, often recognized as Lily Marley, Flame Lily, Glory Lily, or Climbing Lily, presents a unique and exotic presence in any garden or as a potted specimen. Its vibrant, often bi-colored flowers, characterized by reflexed petals, create a dramatic visual display. This plant’s natural climbing habit allows it to elegantly ascend structures, making it a captivating addition.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Lily Marley
The Lily Marley thrives best in ample sunlight, ideally full sun to partial shade. At least six hours of direct sunlight daily encourages profuse blooms. Insufficient light can lead to reduced flowering.
For optimal growth, Lily Marley requires well-draining, rich, loamy soil that is consistently moist but never waterlogged. An ideal soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, enhances soil fertility and drainage.
Consistent moisture is crucial throughout the active growing season, from spring through early autumn. Regular watering, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly, maintains hydration. Prevent standing water around the tubers, as this can lead to rot.
This tropical native prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Ideal daytime temperatures range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), with nighttime temperatures not dropping below 60°F (15°C). The plant is sensitive to frost, necessitating protection or indoor cultivation in cooler climates.
Planting and Ongoing Care
Planting Lily Marley tubers is best done in spring, after the last frost and when soil temperatures warm. Plant tubers horizontally, 2 to 4 inches deep, with the growing tip facing slightly upwards. Space multiple tubers 6 to 8 inches apart.
Whether in the garden or containers, provide a suitable support structure due to the plant’s climbing habit. As it grows, its tendrils attach to trellises, stakes, or netting. Guiding initial shoots towards the support helps establish climbing direction.
During its active growth phase, from spring through summer, Lily Marley benefits from regular feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Apply a diluted solution every two to four weeks. Reduce fertilization frequency as autumn approaches to prepare the plant for dormancy.
General maintenance includes deadheading spent flowers, which encourages more blooms throughout the season. Regularly inspect foliage for pests or diseases, allowing for early intervention and maintaining plant health.
Winterizing and Dormancy
As cooler temperatures arrive in fall, Lily Marley enters dormancy. In regions where winter temperatures drop below freezing, prepare tubers for storage. This ensures their survival for replanting in spring.
Before the first hard frost, carefully dig up the tubers, brushing off excess soil. Avoid washing them, as moisture encourages rot during storage. Inspect each tuber for disease or damage, discarding unhealthy ones.
After digging, air dry tubers in a cool, shaded area until dry. Store them in a breathable medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust. Maintain cool, dark, and dry storage conditions, with temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C).
Proper storage protects tubers from rot and desiccation. In spring, after frost and when soil warms, replant the stored tubers. This allows gardeners in cooler climates to enjoy Lily Marley annually.
Important Safety Information
All parts of the Gloriosa superba plant, including Lily Marley, are toxic if ingested. This toxicity is due to colchicine, an alkaloid. The tubers are particularly concentrated with these compounds.
Symptoms of ingestion include gastrointestinal distress like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and more severe systemic effects such as neurological and cardiovascular issues. Even a small amount can be dangerous.
When handling tubers or any part of the plant, wear protective gloves. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after handling.
In households with children or pets, place Lily Marley in inaccessible locations. If accidental ingestion is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.