Crinum bulbispermum
Common Name: Orange River Lily
Scientific Name: Crinum bulbispermum
Status: Least Concern
Quick ID: Large pink-and-white striped trumpet flowers on tall stems
Where to Find It: Wetlands, riverbanks, floodplains
When to See It: Spring.
Crinum bulbispermum
Common Name: Orange River Lily
Scientific Name: Crinum bulbispermum
Status: Least Concern
Quick ID: Large pink-and-white striped trumpet flowers on tall stems
Where to Find It: Wetlands, riverbanks, floodplains
When to See It: Spring.
Crinum bulbispermum is a striking wetland plant known for its large, elegant flowers. Each stem carries multiple blooms that open in succession.
Crinum bulbispermum is a large indigenous wetland bulb associated with riverbanks, floodplains and seasonal pans across the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Its tall flower stalks carry multiple pink and white striped trumpet flowers that open one after another, extending the flowering display through spring. The bluish-grey leaves contrast beautifully with the flowers, while the species itself has a long history of medicinal and cultural use in both Zulu and Sotho traditions. Large populations can be seen flowering near wetlands and rivers after seasonal rains.
How to identify it
Look for tall flowering stems with large trumpet-shaped flowers and broad, wavy leaves.
Habitat & where to look
Typically found along riverbanks, wetlands, and seasonal floodplains.
Seasonality
Flowers in spring.
Good to know
Widely used in traditional medicine — bulbs should not be harvested or used without proper knowledge.
Conservation status
Listed as Least Concern on South Africa’s Red List.
Notes
A key species linking plant identification to water-based ecosystems.
Seen this plant in the wild?
Help us document local biodiversity.
If you spot this species in The Dargle, tag the Conservancy (@dargle.kzn) and share your sighting online.
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