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Description
Cyrtanthus Contractus, also known as the Fire Lily, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky areas and grasslands. Cyrtanthus Contractus is a perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall and produces large clusters of bright red flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The Fire Lily is named for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers that resemble flames, making them a popular choice for adding color to gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Cyrtanthus |
Appearance
The Cyrtanthus Contractus plant has long green leaves that grow up to 45 cm long and 1 cm wide. These leaves are strap-shaped and have a slightly curved tip. The plant produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are about 6 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers are bright red in color and have a yellow throat. The flowers are arranged in clusters of up to 10 blooms, which grow on a single stem. The plant produces a bulb that is about 4 cm wide and can be divided to propagate new plants.
Care Guide
Cyrtanthus Contractus is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Fire Lily prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Cyrtanthus Contractus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cyrtanthus Contractus is not particularly susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free from debris. If pests are present, treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Cyrtanthus Contractus is native to the grasslands and rocky areas of South Africa. It thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cyrtanthus Contractus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Fire Lily can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cyrtanthus Contractus plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate my Cyrtanthus Contractus plant?
A: The plant produces a bulb that can be divided to propagate new plants. Divide the bulb in the fall, after the plant has finished blooming.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cyrtanthus Contractus?
A: The Fire Lily is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Cyrtanthus Epiphyticus
- Cyrtanthus Falcatus
- Cyrtanthus Herrei
References
- “Cyrtanthus Contractus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283214.
- “Cyrtanthus Contractus.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cyrtanthuscon.htm.
- “Fire Lily (Cyrtanthus Contractus).” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/fire-lily-cyrtanthus-contractus.
