Sunday 26 August 2007

GREEN THUMB SUNDAY - SCADOXUS

In Bud


Starting To Flower


This is the first year I've grown this summer-flowering bulb. It took a long time to start growing despite the fact that it doesn't mind a shady aspect....possibly our temperatures haven't been high enough to give it the kick start it needs. It used to be known as haemanthus, from the greek words haima (blood) and anthos (flower). two of it's common names are Blood Flower and Catherine Wheel. It's not frost hardy so I've grown mine in large pots and I'll overwinter them somewhere frost free. In fact because it was starting to flower and our weather was so wet I brought the pot indoors and stood it on the windowsill so I could see it and enjoy the flowers.

I have read that these plants are poisonous and that in some parts of the world it is used an arrow poison and fishing poison. Some forms of Scadoxus are used to treat coughs; but I wouldn't advise it unless you know what you're doing!!!

21 comments:

Ali said...

That is beautiful, and such a warm, rich colour, love it!

dot said...

Very unusual looking!

maiylah said...

we have a plant like that, too ... didn't know it was poisonous! many thanks for the info! :)

Anonymous said...

It reminds me of a firework exploding in the sky. Unusual how it's all flower and very little leaf, very pretty and unusual.

Aiyana said...

This is one of the most unusual flowers I've ever seen. Lovely photos. Glad you're getting to work in the garden--make hay while the sun shines!
Aiyana

mrsnesbitt said...

How dramatic! Fantastically gorgeous.
Dx

Anonymous said...

Yes. Very unusual - I've never seen anything like it.

Anonymous said...

I don't think my message sent so I'll try again.
Wow this a such a vibrant colour and an unusual shaped flower. I have never seen it before. Thanks for sharing. Sara from farmingfriends

Anonymous said...

I never stop being amazed over mother natures all different kind of creations!!! I've never seen this one, it's a very interesting and unusual shaped flower.

Akelamalu said...

I've never seen or heard of that plant before - it's lovely!

Still fine here Ruth but not particularly hot.

Gill said...

What an amazing bloom! STunning. I love it. My garden is dry and needs love. You should come over to help with it and I'll give you a pedicure and manicure in return! Then we'll have some tea.
xo
Blue

Jeanette said...

Hi Ruth well ive never seen a flower like this very
unusual plant and very vibrant

Shelby said...

They ARE so pretty :)

Anonymous said...

I have never seen these before they are beautiful.

Whyite said...

Very interesting flower and plant Ruth. Very Pretty! Worth keeping it from freezing during the winter.

CG said...

That's beautiful...I'd love one. Very striking. Hope you had as much fun in the garden today as I did!!

RUTH said...

Glad you all liked the Scadoxus...fingers crossed I'll get it through the winter....unless I manage to sprout wings then I'll be off to Gillians for that pedicure!...LOL

Jean said...

what a extrodinary flower! I love the color! Great pictures!

RUTH said...

Good to have you back online Jean :o)

Mark said...

Hi Ruth,
What an unusual plant you could always use that as a toilet brush, if you dont have one...Lol

Thank you for the award, good job I added this after you had done the post..ho ho ho

Laurie and Chris said...

Great plant and pictures. We have never seen one of those before. Have a great GTS.

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