Gloriosa Lily Collection

Flame lily pollen, SEM
Flame lily (Gloriosa sp.) pollen grains, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The grains have a highly sculptured outer wall (exine)

gloriosa superba rothschildiana, gloriosa lily
0943 Gloriosa lily Gloriosa superba Rothschildiana

Flame lily (Gloriosa superba), timelapse sequence from opening bud to flowering, tepals becoming reflexed. Flower pollinated by butterflies. Controlled conditions

Glory lily (Gloriosa superba) bud and flower with reflexed petals and trifid stigma. Pollinated by butterflies. National flower of Zimbabwe

Gloriosa Lily, 1833-39 (coloured engraving)
999407 Gloriosa Lily, 1833-39 (coloured engraving) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: A Dictionnaire pittoresque d histoire naturelle et des phenomAnes de la natureA)

Climber Unusual plant Flowering season Summer
Gloriosa superba Rothschildiana Gloriosa lily Pink subject Black background

In years of bountiful rain, the desert around the Sossusvlei area blooms with a mass of wild flowers including a species of gloriosa lily

Methonica superba, Gloriosa superba; Methonique superbe; Gloriosa Lily, Flamelily; Glory flower, Climbing lily, Redoute, Pierre Joseph, 1759-1840, les liliacees, 1802 - 1816

Gloriosa superba, flame lily
Two butterflies feeding on flame lily (Gloriosa superba). Plate 47 by Margaret Bushby Lascelles Cockburn (1829-1928). Held in the at the Natural History Museum, London

Gloriosa superba, gloriosa lily
Sketch 76 from the collection of original drawings and sketches by Georg Dionysius Ehret (1708-1770). Held in the Botany Library at the Natural History Museum, London

Climbing lily pollen, SEM
Climbing lily pollen grains. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of pollen grains from the climbing lily flower (Gloriosa superba)

Flame lily pollen, SEM
Flame lily (Gloriosa sp.) pollen grains, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The grains have a highly sculptured outer wall (exine)

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The gloriosa lily, scientifically known as Gloriosa superba rothschildiana, is a captivating flower that never fails to mesmerize with its vibrant colors and unique features. This extraordinary climber blooms during the summer season, adding a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape. One of the most striking characteristics of this magnificent plant is its flame-like petals, which earned it the name "flame lily. " The vivid hues range from deep reds and oranges to bright yellows, creating a fiery spectacle that catches everyone's attention. Its reflexed petals and trifid stigma give it an exotic appearance that sets it apart from other flowers. Captured under the scanning electron microscope (SEM), the intricacies of flame lily pollen come into focus. These microscopic grains play a crucial role in pollination, ensuring the continuation of this beautiful species. In a timelapse sequence capturing its growth process, we witness how gloriosa lilies transform from tightly closed buds to fully bloomed flowers. The unfolding tepals reveal their stunning colors gradually over time, showcasing nature's artistry at its finest. Dating back to 1833-39, colored engravings depict these glorious blossoms in all their splendor. Artists have long been captivated by their beauty and sought to immortalize them on paper for generations to admire. Gloriosa lilies thrive in years of bountiful rain when they receive ample moisture for optimal growth. Their ability to withstand various weather conditions makes them resilient climbers capable of flourishing even in challenging environments. Also referred to as Methonica superba or Gloriosa Lily Flamelily in some regions, this unusual plant continues enchanting people worldwide with its allure. Whether adorning trellises or cascading down walls with gracefulness unmatched by others, these flowers are truly exceptional. With each bloom being a masterpiece itself, gloriosa lilies bring joy and wonder wherever they grow.