A deciduous, tuberous rooted, vining member of the Lily family that can reach up to 8 feet in height in width.
The glossy deep green, ovate foliage is up to 7 inches in length with tendril like tips.
The showy flowers, borne all summer are red and yellow and up to 8 inches across.
The plant and its tubers are highly toxic if eaten.
Hardy north to zone 9 ( tolerating 18 F ) in full sun on moist, fertile, humus-rich, well drained soil, preferring long hot summers.
Propagation is by offsets.
In zone 7 and 8 its tubers should be lifted before the first fall frost and stored indoors in dry, cool but frost free conditions. It should be started back into growth in spring in a greenhouse or sunny window and planted out after the last spring freeze and tied into its support. Propagation is from division during spring.
* photo taken on 4th of July @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Gloriosa superba
Similar but with the flowers being yellow turning to red.
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