Scadoxus puniceus Bulbs (2-Pack) — Indigenous Paintbrush Lilies for Dappled Shade 🌿🎨🔥
Turn quiet shade into a showstopper. Scadoxus puniceus (the beloved Paintbrush Lily) sends up bold, brush-like scarlet blooms that make you smile every time you pass. Indigenous. Easy. Effortlessly elegant in South African gardens.
What you get
Why this plant belongs in your garden
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Shade specialist: Thrives in dappled shade or semi-shade; morning sun with afternoon shade works beautifully. Expect lush, glossy leaves and dramatic flower heads with golden anthers. You get colour where most plants sulk.
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Bird-magnet magic: Nectar draws in sunbirds and weavers—your garden comes alive.
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Pot-perfect performer: Ideal for containers on a shaded patio or beneath trees—great for the Highveld and coastal gardens alike.
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Low-fuss rhythm: Summer grower, winter rest. It asks for very little once it settles—so you get beauty without the graft.
How to plant (South Africa-ready) 🌱
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Position: Shade to semi-shade; morning sun is fine, protect from harsh afternoon sun.
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Soil: Well-drained, rich in compost/leaf-mould to mimic forest litter. Your plants feel “at home” and root fast.
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Depth: Loosen soil to 20 cm. Plant with the neck at or just above the soil surface. Space ± 50 cm apart.
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Water: Weekly in summer (keep evenly moist, never soggy). In winter dormancy, keep on the dry side—just enough to prevent shrivelling.
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Frost note: Protect from frost. In colder Highveld microclimates, grow in pots you can move or cover on icy nights.
Seasonal care (simple and quick) 🧑🌾
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Spring–Summer: Feed lightly, water regularly; enjoy the blooms.
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Autumn–Winter: Growth slows and foliage may die back—reduce watering and keep bulbs relatively dry.
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Hands off: Scadoxus flowers best undisturbed—avoid lifting or splitting until clumps are crowded.
Design ideas 💡
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Under deciduous or evergreen trees for a bold splash of colour.
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Mixed shade containers with ferns and Asparagus setaceus for texture.
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Along a shady path where those paintbrush blooms stop guests in their tracks.
Good to know ⚠️
Toxic if ingested. Not edible. Keep away from children and pets.
