Paintbrush / Snake lily

A marvellous splodge of red-orange inflorescence blooms atop these bulbs in early spring and summer.. Sunbirds and weavers enjoy the nectar, and the red berries are eaten by monkeys and birds. It’s being crowded out at Ferncliffe by alien Ginger lily species.

The bulb is poisonous, but the plant is used to make traditional remedies for gastro-intestinal issues and coughs. It’s ranked as one of the most-traded medicinal plant species in South Africa –  in demand from the massive industry  that’s relied on by 72% of black South Africans and consumes over 70,000 tonnes of plants a year.  Wild specimens are likely to feel the pressure in time.