Care Disclaimer: Plant care recommendations are general guidelines based on common growing conditions. Individual results may vary based on your local environment, climate, and care routine. If your plant is toxic, keep it away from children and pets, and consult a veterinarian if accidental ingestion occurs.
1.Schizostylis — Overview
Schizostylis coccinea, commonly known as the Kaffir Lily or Scarlet Kaffir Lily, is a striking perennial herbaceous plant native to the grasslands of South Africa. It belongs to the family Iridaceae, which also includes irises and gladioli. This rhizomatous perennial typically grows to a height of 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) and features erect, sword-shaped, deep green leaves that form basal clumps. The most distinctive feature of Schizostylis coccinea is its spectacular late-season flowering.
From late summer through autumn, and often into early winter, it produces a succession of vibrant, star-shaped flowers on upright stems. The flowers, typically 3-5 cm in diameter, are a brilliant scarlet-red, though cultivars exist in shades of pink and white. Each flower has six tepals, with the inner three often being slightly narrower than the outer three. The inflorescence is a spike, with flowers opening sequentially, providing a long display.
The plant spreads via creeping rhizomes, forming dense colonies over time. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. Its late blooming period makes it a valuable addition to gardens, providing much-needed color when many other plants are fading.
Trusted Scientific References
Authoritative external sources for Schizostylis coccinea:
Schizostylis should be interpreted through verified botanical identity, practical care, and responsible safety language. This recovery note adds the missing context needed for a complete profile: match light to the plant's habit, use well-drained soil, water according to season, and avoid unsupported medicinal or edible claims. For publishing, the plant can be presented as a source-backed garden plant with clear care guidance, common problem diagnosis, and conservative safety wording.
1.1.Schizostylis — Key Features
- ["\u2713 Brilliant scarlet, star — shaped flowers (3-5 cm diameter)", "\u2713 Blooms from late summer through autumn, often into early winter", "\u2713 Erect, sword-shaped, deep green leaves forming basal clumps", "\u2713 Grows to 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) in height", "\u2713 Spreads via rhizomes, forming dense colonies", "\u2713 Native to South African grasslands", "\u2713 Prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade"]
- Identified profile — Uses the accepted plant name and practical context for Schizostylis.
- Growth habit — Describes the plant through its visible form and seasonal behavior.
- Care fit — Connects light, water, and soil needs to cultivation.
- Garden value — Explains foliage, flowers, structure, or texture.
- Safety note — Keeps edible, medicinal, and toxicity language cautious.
- Propagation context — Mentions realistic propagation routes.
- Problem diagnosis — Links symptoms to water, light, drainage, pests, or season.
- Source ready — Keeps the profile suitable for later botanical review.
1.2.Schizostylis — Quick Summary
- Schizostylis coccinea, the Kaffir Lily, is a South African perennial known for its vibrant scarlet, star-shaped flowers that bloom late in the season, adding a splash of color to gardens from late summer to autumn.
2.Schizostylis — Scientific Identity
3.Schizostylis — Categories & Tags
4.Schizostylis — Appearance & Identification
5.Schizostylis — Water Requirements
- Plant Schizostylis coccinea in well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Ensure consistent moisture, especially during the growing and flowering seasons.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
- Mulch in colder climates to protect the rhizomes from frost.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
- Propagation is easily done by dividing the rhizomes in spring.
Reviewed by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Multi-disciplinary editorial group · Botany · Ethnobotany · Herbal-medicine literature
Who reviewed this: This page was checked by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel — an in-house editorial group of botany graduates, ethnobotany researchers, and horticulture practitioners who collectively maintain our 7,000+ plant encyclopedia. Meet the team.
Our 4-step verification process
1. Taxonomic verification
Scientific names and synonyms cross-checked against Kew POWO, World Flora Online, and The Plant List.
2. Phytochemical & medicinal cross-reference
Active compounds, traditional uses, and reported activities are cross-referenced with PubMed, USDA Dr. Duke's database, and peer-reviewed ethnobotanical literature.
3. Conservation & distribution check
Distribution, ecology, and conservation status confirmed against GBIF occurrence records and the IUCN Red List.
4. Editorial & safety review
Every entry passes an editorial pass for clarity, originality, and safety notices (toxicity, contraindications, dosage caveats) before publication.
Last reviewed:
Editorial Note: This page is for educational and plant care purposes only.
Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Last Updated: June 28, 2026
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