Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Scadoxus membranaceus, the Dwarf Paintbrush Lily, is a striking South African native with vibrant red, brush-like flowerheads atop sturdy stems. It thrives in dappled sha
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct, harsh sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Average Room
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Light
25% intensity
Feed during growing season, stop in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering significantly during its dormant period in winter, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to bulb rot.
Remove spent flower stalks and any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and direct the plant's energy into growth and flowering. Pruning is primarily for aesthetic purposes and to prevent disease.
Propagate by dividing overgrown clumps during repotting. Separate offsets gently and allow them to callous for a day or two before replanting in well-draining soil.
Seeds can be sown fresh, but division is generally easier and faster.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the pot becomes crowded, typically in early spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of compost, sand, and perlite.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Dwarf Paintbrush Lily (Scadoxus membranaceus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Scadoxus |
| Species | Scadoxus membranaceus |
Similar in genus Scadoxus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
