We admire the long, green leafy shoots and the red, crown-shaped flowers. However, we pay no attention to the tuber in the ground. It is she who tirelessly takes care of the crown of fame. We should turn to her by autumn at the latest. Because of the whole plant, only it remains and must be safely overwintered.
Gloriosa bulbs are narrow and elongated
toxicity
Gloriosa rothschildiana is highly poisonous. The highest poison concentration is in the tuber. Since you will be holding the tuber in your hand when you plant it in spring at the latest, you should know about it and act accordingly. Wearing gloves prevents plant sap from getting on the skin.
maintenance
During the vegetation period, the focus is on the above-ground parts of the plant. If they get this needs-based care, the tuber will do well. In particular, weekly fertilization and constant moisture allow the Gloriosa to thrive.
As soon as the shoots begin to wither, care is stopped. The tuber is getting ready to spend the coming period dormant.
hibernate
The tuber stays in the pot, but has to move to a suitable winter quarters, where it stays until the beginning of March.
- min. 2 °C, max. 18 °C
- 5 to 10 °C are ideal
- the room should be dark
- if possible with 70% humidity
tips
Leave the tuber alone during the winter. It does not require any care and does not like to change location in between.
Plant daughter rhizomes
In the spring, just before they sprout at the end of February, you must inspect the tuber. Get them out of the ground for that. Dried pieces are removed, strong daughter tubers get their own pot.
By separating the tubers, the plant is propagated. Each piece will develop into a large plant in the summer. Gloriosa should therefore be planted in a sufficiently large pot.
Advance in the house
When the first green leaves the tuber at the beginning of March, there is still a threat of frost outside. The tuber has to stay indoors. On a bright and warm windowsill, it can form the first shoots. If the conditions are not ideal, you can drive them under glass.