Cyrtanthus belongs to the Amaryllidaceae, the amaryllis family, and is one of Africa’s most captivating perennial bulb genera. It includes 59 accepted species and is especially rich in southern Africa, where it occupies an astonishing range of habitats, from fynbos and rocky mountain slopes to grassland, thicket and even cliff faces. The genus is celebrated for its extraordinary variety: some species are evergreen, others deciduous; some grow in summer-rainfall regions, others in winter-rainfall areas; and the flowers range from slender and tubular to broad and flaring, in shades of white, cream, yellow, pink, orange–red and scarlet. Even the name Cyrtanthus hints at its beauty, coming from Greek words meaning “curved flower.” What makes Cyrtanthus so compelling to growers is that it combines wild South African character with real ornamental drama. Many species are excellent container subjects, some are scented, some have beautifully exposed bulbs or twisted foliage, and a few are famed as “fire lilies,” bursting into flower after veld fires. It is a genus with both elegance and ecological intrigue, which is exactly why it holds such enduring appeal for collectors, bulb enthusiasts and gardeners alike.

Cyrtanthus elatus (Vallota speciosa, Cyrtanthus purpureus) – Scarborough Lily, George Lily, George-Lily, Vallota, Knysna Firelily, George Firelily

Cyrtanthus elatus is one of the true showstoppers of the South African bulb world, a spectacular species that instantly earns attention with its bold colour and refined form. Endemic to South Africa, it occurs in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, especially along the southern coastal mountains from just north of Mossel Bay to Humansdorp, where it grows in fynbos and has become famous as the much-admired George lily or Scarborough lily. For collectors, gardeners, and bulb enthusiasts alike, this is a plant that combines wild beauty with real horticultural prestige.

This species is an evergreen, summer-growing bulbous geophyte with a strong, elegant presence. It produces deep green, broadly strap-shaped leaves and sturdy flowering stems crowned with a generous head of open blooms. The flowers are widely funnel-shaped, richly coloured in scarlet to deep red, and highlighted by bright yellow anthers, giving the plant a vivid, dramatic look that still feels graceful and polished. In a well-flowered clump, the abundance of broad, open blossoms creates exactly the kind of lush, eye-catching display that makes this species so desirable for both South African growers and international collectors.

In habitat, Cyrtanthus elatus favours moist sandstone mountain slopes in fynbos, often growing among restios, grasses and ferns in loamy, acid soils, in full sun or light shade. Flowering is especially enhanced by the periodic fires that move through its habitat, and in the wild it typically flowers from late spring to mid-autumn, broadly October to April. That long flowering window, together with its brilliant red display and robust growth habit, makes it one of the most rewarding and recognisable Cyrtanthus species in cultivation.

For anyone looking to add a truly unforgettable South African bulb to their collection, Cyrtanthus elatus is an outstanding choice. It offers bold flower power, collector appeal, and a strong connection to the wild beauty of the Cape flora, making it ideal for growers, gardeners, hobbyists and specialist bulb enthusiasts across South Africa and abroad. Check out our online seed store, explore our Extensive and Diverse Selection and Buy Now or Add to Cart today. Seeds and All offers combined South African and International shipping.