Cyrtanthus breviflorus aka Wild Crocus

Cyrtanthus breviflorus is a bulb plant called yellow fire lily. It belongs to the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae. Its native range runs from Kenya south to South Africa. It also grows in Tanzania, Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Other parts of its range include Malawi, Lesotho, and Eswatini. It lives near small streams and in wet grassland. Marshy slopes also provide a home for this plant. These sites reach 9,843 feet [3,000 metres] above sea level.

The plant grows from a bulb below the soil. Sources give heights of about 0.25–1 foot [0.075–0.3 metres]. One lists a height near 0.66 feet [0.2 metres]. PFAF gives a spread of 0.33 feet [0.1 metres]. The plant varies in form across its range. It can keep its leaves throughout the year. In cooler places, it loses them for a time. This change means its leafy season depends on the climate.

Insects pollinate the flowers, which have both male and female organs. The species can bloom at any time of year. In its native habitat, flowering often follows spring fires. The supplied species accounts give no clear fruit details. Gardeners grow it for ornament, though wild plants also supply food. PFAF lists it as a plant for bog gardens. Its wet native sites help explain that use.

Grow it in full sun with light, well-drained soil. PFAF lists sandy soil as a suitable choice. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. Keep the soil moist while the plant grows. The sources also report a preference for wet soil. Drainage still matters, despite its links with wet habitats. Give it less water during its rest period. It can survive brief cold spells near 23°F [−5°C]. In Britain, a warm, sheltered site improves its chances. Winter protection is advised there because its cold tolerance is limited.

Sow fresh seed when ripe, or sow in spring. Keep young plants under glass through their first winter. Set them outside after the last expected frost. Divide offsets once flowering has ended. PFAF lists leaves as edible; Useful Tropical Plants lists flowers and bulbs. Neither source gives preparation details, and both report no known hazards. This does not establish safety for every use. They list no medicinal uses or other practical uses. The supplied accounts name no specific pests or diseases.