Why is Gloriosa superba poisonous?
Gloriosa superba (GSb) is a highly poisonous plant and its toxicity is due to anti-mitotic effects of constituents such as colchicine and gloriosine on rapidly proliferating cells. Gloriosa superba is a medicinally important plant that produces the pharmaceutically precious colchicine molecule. Colchicine is being used for treating gout, for enhancing the production of interleukin-8 (inhibits human pancreatic cancer) and many other human ailments.
What is the common name for gloriosa?
With various common names including gloriosa lily, glory lily, fire lily, flame lily, climbing lily, creeping lily, and cat’s claw or tiger’s claw, this highly variable, deciduous, summer-growing tuberous plant from tropical and southern Africa and temperate and tropical Asia (from China to India) is grown as a . Gloriosa lily is grown from tuberous roots, which remain dormant during the winter. These tubers can be lifted and divided to propagate new plants. Such division should done no more than every three years or so. Here’s how to do it.
Is Gloriosa an indoor plant?
The flame lily is a climbing lily species that is equally beautiful and poisonous. Therefore, despite the impressive petals, it is considered a rather unconventional houseplant. The flame lily (Gloriosa superba), or gloriosa lily, is a poisonous potted plant or houseplant that can also be used as a cut flower. In many cultures, its fiery petals represent strength and resilience, appreciated for its ability to thrive in various conditions. Moreover, in some regions, the Flame Lily is considered a harbinger of good fortune and prosperity, often associated with regal dignity and prominence.