Gloriosa rothschildiana
(glor-ee-OH-sa roths-chield-ee-AH-na)
Common Name: Gloiosa lily, Rothschid lily, Glory lily
Family: Liliaceae

Climbing, tuberous-rooted plants with brilliant golden-orange and red flowers. Leaves with long tendril at apex. Native to tropical Asia and Africa. Although they resemble lilies, they are closely related to Crocus, and contain the same highly poisonous compound, Colchicum. The genus name 'Gloriosa' is derived from the Latin meaning 'splendid'. To prevent damage, blooms are shipped in gas filled bags. Although 'red' in color the flowers can have a bluish 'tint'. This color mixes well with
bright yellows to be found in forsythia, tulips and some orchids. Consumer care. Recut stems and place flowers in water containing a floral preservative. Keep away from temperature extremes and out of drafts.
Retail handling. Preperation . Recut Gloriosa stems.
Hydration. Place flowers in a warm preservative solution. Short stems may have to be placed in vials. If flowers and leaves are limp, submerge the entire bloom in lukewarm water until turgid.
Temperature . Refrigerate gloriosa at 34 to 36 F (1 to 2C) at high humidity.
Postproduction handling.
Development at harvest. Harvest when fully open.Gloriosa may be sold on leafless flower stems or on longer main stems with foliage.
Lasting qualities . Properly treated flowers last 7 to 10 days.
Hydration. Use clean, warm water.
Preservative . Use a preservative to increase longevity.
Storage. To store dry, pulse flowers in a preservative solution a few hours, bag dry and refrigrate at 35 F(2C) immediately. Gloriosa may be stored 2 to 4 days.