Gloriosa or glory-lily (Gloriosa rothschildiana) has been attracting considerable attention at the spring flower shows for years. These spectacular flowers of rich coloring are most satisfactory for cutting and last well.
Like gladiolus they can be planted outdoors in spring as soon as the soil becomes warm enough to handle comfortably. These exotic flowers are warm weather plants native to tropical climates. They require a long growing season in order to produce flowering tubers for the following year. However, the tubers are moderately priced and can be purchased each year in areas where summers are short. Some gardeners grow them in large pots for use on terraces and porches.
They thrive in full sun and flourish in well fertilized soil. Give them strong stakes for support since they cling by means of tendrils at the ends of the leaves. There are a number of interesting species and hybrids offered by specialists.
Owners of home greenhouses find them of special interest since the blooms are most rewarding.
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