Kaffir Lily

Kaffir Lily (Schizostylis) - S. coccinea is a handsome bulbous plant from Kaffraria, with the habit of a Gladiolus, from 2 to 3 feet high. The flowers appear late in the autumn on a one-sided spike opening from below upward, of a bright crimson color, resembling in form those of Tritonia aurea, and should be well grown wherever cut flowers are desired in winter. It is hardy, and in a mild autumn will flower out of doors, but should have some protection. A good row planted close to a wall or fence, with some temporary protection against severe frosts, will give many spikes for cutting. S. coccinea loves moisture, both in the air and in the soil. "When residing close to the sea in Dorset," says "West Dorset," "I could grow this winter Flag splendidly in a shallow trench in good rich soil. In summer it was deluged with water when the weather was dry, and in autumn a splendid crop of strong spikes of bloom resulted. In North Hants, with a hot, dry, light soil, I never could grow it well, although I always kept it watered at the roots during summer." Increase by seeds, or division in spring.

Also See: Flowers