Climbing Lily

Gloriosa superba

NAME: Gloriosa superba

FAMILY: Colchicaceae

COMMON NAMES: Flame Lily, Climbing Lily, Glory Lily

LOCAL NAMES: Kalihari (Sinhala), Agni-pushpam (Tamil), Langulu (Telugu)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Gloriosa superba is a striking and enchanting flowering plant known for its vivid and fiery appearance. It is a climber that can grow up to 6 to 10 feet tall. The flowers of Gloriosa superba are a sight to behold, with their unique shape and coloration. They have six petal-like tepals that are reflexed, meaning they bend backward, exposing a central column adorned with prominent stamens and anthers. The tepals are typically a combination of red, yellow, and orange, creating a flame-like appearance. The plant's leaves are lance-shaped and arranged alternately along the stem.

USEFUL PART(s): The tubers and leaves of Gloriosa superba are the most commonly utilized parts.

GENERAL USES: Gloriosa superba has various uses across cultures and industries. The tubers and leaves contain bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used in herbal medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-malarial properties. However, it's important to note that some parts of the plant are highly toxic and should not be ingested without proper preparation and guidance. The plant is also prized for its ornamental value and is cultivated as a garden plant for its stunning flowers.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Gloriosa superba is native to many parts of Africa and Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and various regions in East Africa. It can also be found in some tropical and subtropical regions as an introduced or cultivated species.

WHY IS IT GREEN?: Like all plants, Gloriosa superba is green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its cells. Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, ultimately fueling their growth and development.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Gloriosa superba, when grown in its native habitat, plays a role in local ecosystems by providing nectar and habitat for pollinators, as well as contributing to the overall biodiversity. However, in some areas, it has been categorized as an invasive species, particularly when introduced to non-native environments, as it can outcompete native flora and disrupt local ecosystems.

FUN FACT: Gloriosa superba is the national flower of Zimbabwe. It holds cultural significance in various regions and has been used in traditional ceremonies and rituals.

FURTHER READING:

  1. Baskin, Jerry M., and Carol C. Baskin. "Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States." The University of North Carolina Press, 2015.

  2. Raju, V. Siva, et al. "Gloriosa superba: A Review." Pharmacognosy Reviews, vol. 6, no. 11, 2012, pp. 96-102.

  3. Wickramasinghe, S. M. "Gloriosa superba L.: A Review." South African Journal of Botany, vol. 74, no. 3, 2008, pp. 469-477.