The Scadoxus genus, commonly known as Paintbrush Lilies or Blood Lilies, is a group of African bulbous plants belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. These striking plants are characterised by their large, spherical inflorescences of bright red, orange, or pink flowers — resembling a painter's brush or a burst of blood-red colour. The genus is native to sub-Saharan Africa and includes several species that are notoriously difficult to distinguish from one another, even for experienced botanists. In the garden, Scadoxus species are valued for their dramatic floral displays, but they also contain toxic compounds that require careful handling.
Written by Kutlwano Mokoena
Founder of Evergreen Hideout Agricultural Services (NPO: 2024 / 380375 / 07). Specialist in plant identification and botanical documentation.
Quick Diagnostic Summary
Large, spherical cluster of bright red/orange flowers resembling a painter's brush or a burst of blood.
Likely either Scadoxus puniceus (Red Paintbrush) or Scadoxus multiflorus (Blood Lily) — ongoing research needed for confirmation.
🌸 First Encounter: A Discovery in the Wild
I first encountered this mysterious flower in 2021 or 2022, during a hunting trip with my friend Emnes Baloyi. We were walking through the bush, separated and searching different spots, when Emnes called out to me: "Come look at this!"
I approached him, and as I got closer, I saw it — a striking, bright red flower standing out against the green vegetation. It looked like a painter's brush dipped in red paint, or a cluster of tiny green balls that looked like seeds. I was amazed. I had never seen anything like it before. I pulled out my phone and started taking photos, determined to capture the moment.
What I observed: The flower was a large, round cluster of bright red blooms — each tiny flower contributing to a stunning display. The stem was thick and fleshy, and the whole plant seemed almost too beautiful to be real. I was captivated.
🌸 Personal Connection: At that time, it was my first year installing wifi and I had started a Blogger site without any real knowledge. I was eager to document everything I found, but I had no idea how to properly identify plants. I began to research this flower, but I couldn't find what it was. I ended up copying and pasting the first information I found — a common mistake for a beginner.
Years passed. I never forgot that flower. It became a symbol of my early days — the excitement of discovery, the frustration of not knowing, and the determination to keep learning.
This sighting was significant for three reasons:
- Discovery of a stunning species: The flower was unlike anything I had ever seen. Its beauty was striking, and I knew I had to learn more about it.
- Lesson in research: I learned that good research takes time. Copying and pasting information is not the same as truly understanding a plant. Over the years, I developed better research habits.
- Symbol of growth: This flower represents my journey as a gardener and researcher — from ignorance to curiosity, from curiosity to knowledge, and from knowledge to sharing with others.
📍 Location: Bushveld, Soshanguve area, Pretoria
📅 Date: 2021–2022
🌤️ Conditions: Bright day, flower standing out against green vegetation
🌱 Encounter context: Hunting trip with Emnes Baloyi; he called me over to see the flower
Identification Journey: Years of Research
For years, I struggled to identify this flower. I searched through online databases, plant identification apps, and botanical guides. I showed the photos to other gardeners and plant enthusiasts. No one could give me a definitive answer.
At first, I copied and pasted the first information I found — a common mistake for a beginner. I published it on my Blogger site without fully verifying it. I knew it was wrong, but I didn't have the knowledge to correct it.
As technology and my knowledge improved, I revisited the mystery. I began to understand the importance of plant identification — the need for accurate photos, detailed observations, and careful comparisons. I used image identifiers, read botanical descriptions, and compared my photos to verified specimens.
Recently, I made a breakthrough. I identified the flower as belonging to the Scadoxus genus — likely either Scadoxus puniceus (Red Paintbrush) or Scadoxus multiflorus (Blood Lily).
🔍 Current Identification Status:
Likely Species: Scadoxus puniceus (Red Paintbrush) — 47.4% confidence
Alternative Species: Scadoxus multiflorus (Blood Lily) — 30.3% confidence
Status: Ongoing research — still not 100% certain.
I am still not entirely sure which species it is. The two species are closely related and share many characteristics. I haven't found at least 80% accuracy yet. But I hope that this time, I am on the right track.
Botanical Profile: Scadoxus Species
Scadoxus puniceus (Red Paintbrush)
- Description: A bulbous perennial with a large, spherical inflorescence of bright red flowers. The flowers are surrounded by leaf-like bracts.
- Habitat: Found in forests, woodlands, and grasslands across southern Africa.
- Flowering Period: Late summer to autumn (February to April).
- Distinguishing Features: The inflorescence is usually raised above the leaves, and the flowers are bright red with yellow tips.
Scadoxus multiflorus (Blood Lily)
- Description: A bulbous perennial with a large, spherical inflorescence of bright red or orange-red flowers.
- Habitat: Found in forests, woodlands, and grasslands across sub-Saharan Africa.
- Flowering Period: Late spring to summer (October to January).
- Distinguishing Features: The inflorescence is often raised above the leaves, and the flowers are bright red to orange-red.
Toxicity
Scadoxus species contain toxic alkaloids, particularly lycorine, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms if ingested. The bulbs are the most toxic part of the plant. In traditional medicine, Scadoxus species have been used for their medicinal properties, but they must be handled with care and used under proper guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Scadoxus puniceus and Scadoxus multiflorus?
A: Both species are closely related and have similar appearances. Scadoxus puniceus (Red Paintbrush) typically flowers in late summer to autumn, while Scadoxus multiflorus (Blood Lily) flowers in late spring to summer. The flower colour and habitat can also be distinguishing factors.
Q: Are Scadoxus plants toxic?
A: Yes. Scadoxus species contain toxic alkaloids, particularly lycorine, which can cause nausea and vomiting if ingested. The bulbs are the most toxic part. Handle with care and keep away from children and pets.
Q: How do I grow Scadoxus in my garden?
A: Scadoxus species prefer well-drained soil and partial shade. They are suitable for gardens in warmer regions. Plant the bulbs in spring, water regularly during the growing season, and allow them to rest during the winter dormancy period.
Q: How can I identify my Scadoxus species?
A: Take clear photos of the flower, leaves, and bulb. Compare them to verified images from botanical databases. Note the flowering time and habitat. If possible, consult with a local botanical expert or use a reputable plant identification app.
📚 Related Resources
- Real Grow Series: Follow the full journey of building a food-producing garden from scratch — Start here
- Plant Identifier App: Identify plants by uploading a photo — Try it here
- Indigenous Plants: How to identify and grow native South African species
- Botanical Research: Resources for plant identification and documentation
Conclusion: The Mystery Continues
This flower remains one of the most elusive and beautiful species I have ever encountered. Its bright red blooms, discovered during a hunting trip with Emnes Baloyi, have stayed with me for years — a symbol of mystery, curiosity, and the endless journey of learning.
My research journey has taught me that plant identification is not always straightforward. Sometimes, even with the best tools and resources, it takes years to find an answer — and even then, the answer may not be certain.
I am grateful for the experience. It taught me patience, persistence, and the importance of accurate research. Whether this flower is Scadoxus puniceus or Scadoxus multiflorus, it will always represent the beauty of the unknown — and the joy of discovering something new.